A scoping review of Adverse, Benevolent, and Positive Childhood Experiences in military-connected children
AI Summary
Military-connected children face relocations, educational disruption, loss of friendships and parental deployments, contributing to adverse childhood experiences.
Benevolent and positive childhood experiences may buffer ACE effects, yet evidence is scarce: one study on PCEs and none on BCEs.
Scoping review screened seven databases and found six eligible papers (five USA, one UK), highlighting a significant evidence gap and research need.
PLOS Ment Health. 2026 Jul 22;3(7):e0000654. doi: 10.1371/journal.pmen.0000654. eCollection 2026.
ABSTRACT
Military-connected children and young people face unique stressors, such as relocations, educational disruptions, loss of friendships and parental deployments, which can contribute to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). However, Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCEs) and Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) can act as protective factors. The military community offers stability, support, and strength, which may help buffer the effects of ACEs. Research into BCEs and PCEs for military-connected children is crucial to promoting positive outcomes and mitigating negative impacts over time. A scoping review was conducted to map literature regarding ACEs, BCEs and PCEs of Military Connected Children and Young People (MCCYP). Seven databases were searched (ASSIA, PsychARTICLES, PubMed, SAGE, Science Direct, Scopus and Web of Science), using key words and strategic search criteria. The Critical Skills Appraisal Program (CASP) tool was used for quality appraisal of the articles. Six papers met the inclusion criteria, of which five were USA based and one from the UK. All included articles focused on ACES, with one paper reporting PCEs in conjunction with ACEs. None were found regarding BCEs. Included articles contained research pertaining to current military connected children and the impact of ACEs on their current or future wellbeing. By undertaking the first scoping review explicitly examining ACEs, BCEs and PCEs among MCCYP, a significant gap in the evidence base was found.
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