Parents’ Risk and Protective Factors Within Immigrant Preschool Families: The Role of Parental Experiences on Youth Socioemotional Development

While adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been extensively studied, research on positive childhood experiences (PCEs) is emerging, particularly in the context of immigrant families. This study examines the socioemotional adjustment of low-income preschoolers. We hypothesize that preschoolers’ well-being is positively associated with protective factors and negatively related to risk factors, with stronger associations among immigrant families. Preliminary findings indicate significant correlations between parents’ PCEs and preschoolers’ socioemotional competencies. Acculturation stress and negative caregiving were associated with preschoolers’ reduced well-being. Research suggests that parents’ past experiences influence socioemotional development. PCEs appear to be a protective factor for both parents and children.