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Stephanie L Colorada

St. Michael's College, Philippines

Title: Exploring the Impact of Early Life Experiences on Adolescent Psychiatric Well-being: A Longitudinal Study

Abstract

Adolescence is a critical period of development, marked by rapid physical, cognitive, and emotional changes. During this transitional phase, young individuals may encounter various stressors and challenges that can significantly impact their psychiatric well-being. This longitudinal study aims to delve into the intricate relationship between early life experiences and the mental health outcomes of adolescents.

The central objective of this research is to explore how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), positive life events, and various protective factors shape the mental health trajectories of adolescents. ACEs encompass a range of negative events such as abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, and exposure to violence during childhood. They have been consistently linked to increased risk for a wide array of psychiatric disorders, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the impact of positive life events and protective factors, such as social support and resilience, on mitigating these risks remains an area of interest.

This longitudinal study will follow a diverse cohort of adolescents from various socioeconomic backgrounds over a multi-year period, collecting data on their early life experiences, mental health symptoms, and coping mechanisms. Through surveys, interviews, and psychometric assessments, we will gather comprehensive data on the participants' experiences and well-being.

The research hypothesis posits that while ACEs may increase the vulnerability to psychiatric disorders, positive life events and protective factors can serve as buffers against these adverse effects. By examining these dynamics over time, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of the long-term consequences of early life experiences on adolescent mental health and resilience.

The implications of this study are profound, as they can inform the development of targeted interventions and support systems to enhance the psychiatric well-being of adolescents. Additionally, the findings may underscore the importance of early intervention and prevention strategies to mitigate the impact of ACEs.

In conclusion, this longitudinal study offers a comprehensive exploration of the intricate interplay between early life experiences and adolescent psychiatric well-being. By shedding light on the factors that contribute to resilience and vulnerability, it provides a foundation for the development of effective interventions to support the mental health of young individuals during this critical phase of development.

Biography

Stephanie L. Colorada is a dedicated scholar with a strong academic background. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Language from St. Michael's College, where her passion for language and education was ignited. She further honed her expertise by successfully completing a Master of Arts in Education with a specialization in English Language teaching, earning acclaim for her outstanding thesis work. Currently, Stephanie is embarking on a doctoral journey in APPLIED LINGUISTIC at Silliman University, Dumaguete, where she is on the cusp of taking her comprehensive examination in November 2023. Her commitment to academic excellence extends beyond the classroom, as she has contributed to the body of knowledge in her field through publications in reputable journals indexed by Web of Science and Scopus. As a dedicated member of the TESOL community, Stephanie holds a certificate recognizing her commitment to English language teaching. Her excellence in research and presentation skills was evident when she was awarded the Best Research and Best Oral Presenter titles during her participation at the Philippine Association for Graduate Education in April 2021. In March 2023, Stephanie showcased her research prowess once again at the ICEDU conference in Bangkok, Thailand, where she not only delivered the Best Oral Presentation but also secured a publication for her work. Stephanie is an active member of various research societies, including the Asian Society of Teachers for Research Inc., Association of Education Researchers and Trainers (ASSERT) Inc., and the Language and Society in Cambridge University, where she contributes to the advancement of linguistic knowledge. Her dedication to research is further underscored by her attendance at numerous seminars, with a particular focus on qualitative research methods. At St. Michael's College, Stephanie imparts her knowledge and expertise by teaching major and minor courses in Language and Communication. Additionally, she serves as a Research Associate for the Higher Education Department at the same institution, where she continues to contribute to educational research and development. Stephanie's passion for education, research, and her commitment to scholarly pursuits make her a valuable asset to the academic community.