Dr. Christina Bethell is the lead researcher on an exciting new study documenting the powerful effects of Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) in addressing the negative consequences of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). In this engaging conversation with Dr. Larry McCullough, Executive Director of Pinetree Institute, Dr. Bethell illuminates the PCEs research and its role in understanding the double challenge of promoting health and well-being: reducing adversity and building positive flourishing. This recording was made in the early stages of the Covid-19 crisis and Dr. Bethell shares powerful insights personal stories with compelling implications for building and maintaining social connection in a time of physical distancing. Her perceptive explanation and examples of “presence” in relationships is particularly helpful in unearthing ways each of us can provide the healing medicine of connection during difficult times. As Dr. Bethell says “we are the medicine.”

Dr. Christina Bethell's Bio

For over 20 years Dr. Christina Bethell has worked to document and address the effects of childhood experiences on healthy growth and development. Dr. Bethell’s recent research on the impact of Positive Experiences, as reported in JAMA Pediatrics, Sept. 2019, evidenced that specific positive experiences during childhood and adolescence can significantly buffer against the negative outcomes of early adverse experiences. Dr. Bethell is the founding Director of the Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative in the Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University. She brings an impressive set of credentials to this work including a Ph.D., MBA and Master of Public Health.

More information is available at pinetreeinstitute.org.