Profiles of Childhood Adversity, Strengths, and Wellbeing in Adulthood

This study explores patterns of strengths and childhood adversity and how these impact adult wellbeing. Data were from the Growing Up with Opioids study. Participants (n = 1,571, ages 18-60) were recruited through social media. Latent Profile Analysis revealed a seven-class solution: (1) Low Adversity with Very Low Regulatory Strengths, (2) Very Low Adversity with Low Regulatory Strengths, (3) Self-Reliant, (4) Self-Reliance Plus, (5) Regulatory Resilient, (6) Buffered and Connected, and (7) Insulated and Thriving. Among the three adversity and victimization classes (3-5), very high percentages of participants reported growing up in a home with someone who struggled with drugs and/or alcohol. The two classes with the highest strengths, regardless of childhood adversity, had the highest likelihood of positive adult wellbeing indicators. By identifying distinct profiles of adversity and strengths, this research supports a shift toward strengths-based public health strategies that not only mitigate risk but also promote adaptive capacities.