Definition: Estimated percentage of children ages 12-17 with and without exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), among those with and with and without positive childhood experiences (PCEs), by number of PCEs (e.g., in 2022, among California youth ages 12-17 with five or fewer PCEs, 50.2% had at least one ACE).
Data Source: Has had adverse childhood experiences - Teen: The California Health Interview Survey, 2022. Tabulation by the California Dept. of Public Health, Injury and Violence Prevention Branch (Jun. 2025).
Footnote: This indicator captures five adverse childhood experiences: (1) parent or guardian got divorced or separated, (2) parent or guardian served time in jail or prison, (3) witnessed domestic violence in the home, (4) household member was mentally ill, (5) household member abused alcohol or drugs, and seven positive childhood experiences: always or most of the time (i) feeling able to talk to family about feelings, (ii) feeling supported by family during difficult times, (iii) feeling safe and protected by an adult at home, (iv) having at least two adults other than parents take genuine interest, (v) feeling supported by friends, (vi) feeling a sense of belonging at school, (vii) enjoying participating in community traditions. These estimates are based on a survey of the population and are subject to both sampling and nonsampling error. For more information, visit the California Health Interview Survey.
