New video on NRP 76: Life after difficult experiences in childhood and adolescence

Researchers from the Psychological Institute of the University of Zurich investigated the long-term consequences of difficult experiences in childhood and adolescence on the physical and mental health of those affected.

The consequences of negative experiences during childhood and adolescence can still be recognised in older adults in the form of poorer physical and mental health and a greater susceptibility to the harmful effects of stress. People who experience abuse and neglect while in care during their childhood and adolescence suffer the consequences of this throughout their lives. The traumatic experiences can be transferred to the psyche and have an impact on the health of those affected.

As part of the project by the Psychological Institute of the University of Zurich, interviews were conducted with older people who had been placed in care during their childhood and adolescence. The project found that a person's feeling of self-worth is a vital resource in developing resilience. A strong feeling of self-worth demonstrably lessens the harmful effects of emotional abuse and neglect on mental health.

To provide some insights into the findings of the NRP 76 research projects, NRP 76 has created a number of videos, including this one on the project by Myriam Thoma and her team. The findings of NRP 76 are presented in three thematic volumes – the project on by Myriam Thoma and her team can be found in Volume 3 “Schicksale der Fremdplatzierung” [The fates of those placed in care]. The books are available in print and as e-books (open access).