Studying the impact of PFML policies on ACEs and PCEs
With support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and in collaboration with partners at Boston University, the HOPE National Resource Center is conducting a 3-year study to better estimate the impact of state paid family and medical leave (PFML) policies on specific adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and positive childhood experiences (PCEs), including abusive head trauma (AHT), child maltreatment, maternal mental health and family resilience. The effects of individual policy components, including length of leave, as well as the presence or absence of progressive wage replacement and job protection, will also be assessed. 14 states currently offer PFML or will begin to implement PFML by 2026.
Research Project Information
Project Name
Effectiveness of Paid Family and Medical Leave Policies and Policy Components on Adverse Childhood Experiences Prevention, Positive Childhood Experiences Promotion and Health Equity
HOPE Contributors
Dina Burstein, MD, MPH, principal investigator
Robert Sege, MD, PhD, FAAP, co-investigator
Kelsey Hannan, research assistant
Collaborators
Tufts Medicine
Angie Rodday, PhD, MS, co-investigator
Boston University
Dolores Acevedo-Garcia, PhD, MPA-URP, co-investigator
Pamela Joshi, PhD, MPP, site principal investigator
Funders
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Project Dates
October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2028
Keywords
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), positive childhood experiences (PCEs), paid family and medical leave (PFML), maternal health, child maltreatment, abusive head trauma (AHT)
