Childhood poverty and adult psychological well-being
Considerable research shows that chronic exposure to uncontrollable stressors induces helplessness (11–14). A few studies reveal a positive association between poverty and helplessness during childhood (15, 16) and later in adolescence (16). For the first time, to our knowledge, we examine whether childhood disadvantage is related to helplessness in adulthood.
This is an area very close to my heart. I lived in poverty as a child and came from a one parent family. In all my research into the effects of stress on the body and mindset ie fixed mindset verses growth mindset I am now led to look at childhood poverty and this strikes a deep cord within me.
There are proven links on the effects of stress in childhood and then the long term effects of stress in adulthood because of the damage to the prefrontal cortex and the body’s ability to deal with stress. When I trained as a coach I had the realisation that I had a fixed mindset or povertymindset (fear of lack) which is ridged and immovable, and ever since I have worked hard to learn how to develop psychological flexibility and nurture a growth mindset.
The beauty of the brain is it’s neuroplasticity.
What is the Meaning of Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to adapt. Or, as Dr. Campbell puts it:
“It refers to the physiological changes in the brain that happen as the result of our interactions with our environment. From the time the brain begins to develop in utero until the day we die, the connections among the cells in our brains reorganize in response to our changing needs. This dynamic process allows us to learn from and adapt to different experiences”
Celeste Campbell (n.d.).
https://positivepsychology.com/neuroplasticity/
In my journey I have now found meaning and purpose, to be able to make sense of my life and use what I have learned to help others.
If you think your past dictates your future and you can’t change I understand how that feels. Through self development, learning and education you can find a way forward and a way out.
Think of your brain as a huge computer that need’s reprogramming.
You can learn to have compassion for yourself and learn to love yourself.
Bring light where there is darkness and acceptance.
Childhood poverty is destroying the future of those adults potential and capabilities, I don’t know how we can tackle it but right now with the cost of living crises we are witnessing the perfect storm for the future.
It has only taken me 48 years to discover myself and learn self acceptance and some people never manage it all.
I would love to know others views on this
