Rural-Urban Differences in Adverse and Positive Childhood Experiences: Results From the National Survey of Children's Health

Date
01/2022
Description

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are events of abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction occurring between birth and 17 years of age. Studies have found a direct correlation between ACEs and risky behaviors, poor physical health, and poor mental health outcomes in childhood. Positive childhood experiences (PCEs) include a nurturing, safe, and supportive environment allowing for health development and overall wellness. In prior research, rural-urban differences in PCEs have not been examined using all 50 states. This brief examines the types and counts of ACEs and PCEs for rural and urban children. The study also reports on the differences between rural and urban ACEs and PCEs across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Center
Rural and Minority Health Research Center
Authors
Elizabeth Crouch, Sylvia Kewei Shi, Katherine Kelly, Alexander McLain, Jan Eberth, Janice Probst, Monique Brown, Melinda Merrell, Kevin Bennett