Supporting families in the context of adverse childhood experiences

Families across the world are affected by trauma and dysfunction such as maltreatment, addiction, mental health conditions and relationship breakdown.  These adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) can impact families’ wellbeing across generations.  To identify how we may best support families in the context of adversity, it is critical we investigate the role of parenting.  Parenting may not only be influenced by parents’ own childhood experiences, but may also be an important protective factor for kids currently living with ACEs. 

This program of research explores the links between ACEs, parenting and wellbeing across generations.  It uses data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, the National Health Survey, and the Young Australia Survey.   

It is supported by funding from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families over the Life Course.