Prevalence of Positive Childhood Experiences Among Adults — Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, Four States, 2015–2021

What is already known about this topic?

Positive childhood experiences (PCEs), children’s experiences of safe, stable, and nurturing relationships and environments, promote healthy child development and adult mental and relational health and buffer against negative impacts of adverse childhood experiences.

What is added by this report?

This population-based study presents PCE prevalence among U.S. adults in four states. Approximately one half of adults (53.1%) reported six to seven PCEs; 12.2% reported two or fewer. PCEs were lower among lesbian, gay, and bisexual adults and higher among respondents with higher income and educational attainment.

What are the implications for public health practice?

Integration of PCEs data collection into public health surveillance can guide approaches to promote well-being and reduce health disparities.