What term refers to stressful events in childhood that can affect long-term health and well-being?

The term that specifically refers to stressful events in childhood that can have a significant impact on long-term health and well-being is "Adverse Childhood Experiences" (often abbreviated as ACEs). This term encompasses a range of traumatic events and experiences that children may face, such as abuse, neglect, household dysfunction, and other forms of stress that can lead to various mental and physical health issues later in life.

Research has shown that experiencing ACEs can profoundly shape a child's development and influence their future health outcomes, including increased risk for chronic diseases, mental health disorders, and various other long-term challenges. The concept of ACEs has gained traction in public health and psychology, leading to increased awareness and efforts to mitigate these experiences through preventive measures and supportive interventions.

While "childhood adversities" may seem similar, it is a broader and less specific term. "Traumatic experiences" captures certain elements but does not encompass the full scope of factors associated with ACEs. "Developmental challenges" generally refers to obstacles in reaching developmental milestones and does not specifically address the stress-related component connected to long-term health.