How positive childhood experiences can reduce the impact of childhood trauma
Official title: Positive Childhood Experiences and Intergenerational Trauma Transmission
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10996258 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how positive experiences in childhood, like loving relationships and support, can help kids cope with tough times and how these benefits can be passed down to future generations, all to find ways to improve well-being for families.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $47,025 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NR021335-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996258 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include families with children aged 0-21 who have experienced varying levels of childhood adversity or support.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced any childhood adversities or positive experiences may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of positive childhood experiences (PCEs) on mitigating the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and how these experiences can be transmitted across generations. It aims to understand how nurturing relationships and supportive environments can foster emotional well-being and resilience in children, even when they face challenges. The study will involve collecting and analyzing data on family dynamics and parenting practices to explore the intergenerational transmission of both positive and negative experiences. By focusing on these aspects, the research seeks to provide insights that could help improve health outcomes for both children and adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies that enhance positive childhood experiences, ultimately improving mental and physical health outcomes for future generations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that positive childhood experiences can significantly buffer the effects of adverse experiences, indicating a promising area of study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Drenth, Patricia Jill-Kelly — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Drenth, Patricia Jill-Kelly
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.