Relationships and Resiliency: A Pilot Study on the Correlation of Positive Childhood Experiences and Relationship Quality in Romantic Relationships

Abstract

Childhood experiences shape how individuals relate and connect in adulthood. This pilot study examined the association between positive childhood experiences (PCEs) and romantic relationship quality among adults aged 32–45 in committed relationships (N = 197). Participants completed the Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCE) scale and the Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS). Results from a simple linear regression indicated that BCE total scores significantly predicted RAS scores, F(1, 187) = 7.27, p = .008, with a small-to-medium effect size (R² = .037; β = .193). Findings highlight the value of assessing positive early experiences alongside adverse ones, emphasizing the potential role of PCEs in fostering higher-quality adult relationships. The study underscores implications for prevention and couples therapy by focusing on resilience-based perspectives in early developmental contexts.

Keywords

Positive childhood experiences relationship quality

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