A recent study, conducted by the researchers of the University of South Australia, has claimed that a happy childhood does not guarantee adulthood devoid of mental disorders. The study conducted in collaboration with the University of Canberra had examined how early childhood experiences link to several developmental pathways, and how these might be connected with poor mental health.
While a negative childhood increases the likelihood of mental illness, a happy and secure childhood does not always protect a child from developing a mental illness in adulthood. Since both positive and negative childhood events exhibit mental health disorders into adulthood, researchers conclude that it’s the ability of the person to adjust or rather not adjust to unexpected situations that might be affecting mental health.
According to the study, nearly 50% of the Australian population faces mental illness at some point in their lives. Additionally, an estimated 314,000 children aged 4-11, that is almost 14%, experience a mental disorder. While the study has confirmed that people who undergo traumatic childhood experiences suffer from elevated symptoms of poor mental health, children who grow up in stable and supportive environments may also suffer the same.
To Know More, You May Refer To:
Bianca L. Kahl, Phillip S. Kavanagh, David H. Gleaves. Testing a life history model of psychopathology: A replication and extension. Current Psychology, 2020; DOI: 10.1007/s12144-020-01062-y 1 Kahl, B.L., Kavanagh, P.S. & Gleaves, D.H. Testing a life history model of psychopathology: A replication and extension. Curr Psychol (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-020-01062-y