Understanding the effects of adversity and inequity to effectively reduce their impact on children
Experiences of adversity during childhood can have wide-spread and long-term detrimental effects on children’s well-being. Researchers at CCFW are studying the risk and protective factors (experiences, relationships, social contexts and skills) that impact children’s well-being. Our work informs practice and policy aimed at reducing the impact of adversity on children and interrupting the flow of these outcomes from generation to generation.
We use a bioecological model to study the neurobiological, social-emotional, health and mental health outcomes of experiences of adversity at multiple levels. These include parenting, family, neighborhood, and environmental factors that account for the effects of adversity — and conversely, that can promote resilience in children.
Our partners are studying the impacts of adversity and inequity in a variety of areas, including the effects of economic disadvantage, interpersonal violence, neighborhood disadvantage and violence, childhood cancer diagnosis, air pollutants, and life-span and intergenerational perspectives on adverse childhood experiences (ACES).
Research Topics Include
- Understanding the effects of adversity at multiple system levels, including individual, family, community and environmental risk
- Examining the risk and protective factors in the lives of families experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage
- Mindfulness and self-compassion prevention programs to promote well-being in children and families experiencing adversity
