Exploring Emerging Adulthood and Adverse Childhood Experiences' Effects on Psychosocial Well-Being

Childhood experiences have been documented to influence the later life of individuals, especially in emerging adults, which is the immediate period after adolescence when young adults strive to define their identity and purpose. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events that occur before a child reaches the age of 18. The purpose of the study was to explore the emerging students' ACEs and the psychosocial effects in later life. Participants included 15 emerging adults (Males=6; Females=9) in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. An interview guide was used to gather data from the participants. Thematic analysis showed that the participants' ACEs have made them perceive life differently, which informs the way they view life satisfaction and also build relationships with others. Five themes were identified as: (1) identity formation; (2) belonging; (3) meaning making; (4) challenges and growth; and (5) suicide. It is recommended that mental health professionals should teach affected individuals some behavioural changes, including building resilience.