Definition: Estimated percentage of adults with and without adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) before age 18, among those with and without positive childhood experiences (PCEs) before age 18, by number (e.g., in 2021, among California adults ages 18 and older with 3-5 PCEs, 54.3% had 1-3 ACEs).
Data Source: Number of adverse childhood experiences (8 point scale): The California Health Interview Survey, 2021. Tabulation by the California Dept. of Public Health, Injury and Violence Prevention Branch (Sept. 2023).
Footnote: This indicator captures eight adverse childhood experiences: (1) parents were separated or divorced, (2) household member 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, (6) experienced physical abuse, (7) experienced emotional abuse, (8) experienced sexual abuse, 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 in high 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.
