The Influence of Early Experiences on Perinatal Mental Health: A Dual Perspective on Adversity and Benevolence

Abstract

Early childhood experiences may shape the transition to motherhood. Research has mainly examined Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), while Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCEs) remain comparatively understudied. Considering both together is key to understanding maternal adjustment. This study aimed to identify subgroups of pregnant women based on ACEs, specifically childhood maltreatment (CM), and BCEs levels and to examine how these clusters relate to emotional symptoms and adaptation to pregnancy. A total of 454 pregnant women (M = 34.70 years; SD = 3.94 years; range = 22–47 years; 95.4% Spanish) from an urban setting were recruited through a hospital and completed questionnaires assessing ACEs, BCEs, anxiety, depression, and adaptation to pregnancy. Cluster analyses identified four distinct CM–BCE profiles. Psychological outcomes during pregnancy differed significantly across clusters. Differences in depressive symptoms were associated with both CM and BCEs (H(3) = 44.92, p < .001, η² = .10), whereas pregnancy anxiety (H(3) = 24.96, p < .01, η² = .05) and adaptation to pregnancy (H(3) = 49.62, p <. 01, η² = .11) were particularly sensitive to the absence of BCEs. Overall, BCEs emerged as a significant promotive factor for psychological adjustment during pregnancy. The findings support integrating both CM and BCEs into research and clinical assessments, encouraging a resilience-oriented framework.