How positive childhood experiences can reduce the impact of childhood trauma

Positive Childhood Experiences and Intergenerational Trauma Transmission

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10996258

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 typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10996258 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include families with children aged 0-21 who have experienced varying levels of childhood adversity or support.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced any childhood adversities or positive experiences may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.