Negative and positive childhood experiences with regard to PTSD and subjective well-being in the national sample of Poles

This study aimed to explore the distinct and cumulative impacts of various types of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and positive childhood experiences (PCEs) on the occurrence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and subjective well-being (SWB) in a Polish citizens. A nationally representative sample of Polish adults (n = 2,231) participated in this study. ACEs were evaluated using the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire (ACE-Q), while PCEs were assessed using the Benevolent Childhood Experiences Scale. The level of PTSD was measured via the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 and lifetime traumatic events with the use of the Life Events Checklist for DSM-5. SWB indicators were assessed using the Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule. Network analysis showed that not all but rather specific ACEs (sexual abuse, emotional neglect, physical neglect and mental illness in the household) were related to the risk of PTSD in adulthood. In contrast, PCEs were associated mostly with SWB levels in the participants. Moreover, we found an extraordinarily elevated PTSD level in Poland (23.8% probable PTSD diagnosis in the entire sample). Our study highlights the need to broaden childhood adversity research to include PCEs as an important target for promoting resilience in adults.