Figure 1. Relation between Adversity and Stress Experiences in Development.

This diagram illustrates the conceptual differences and overlap between experiences of adversity and stress in development. We define adverse experience to be a significant deviation from the expectable environment, independent of whether that experience triggers a response in the stress system (adverse exposures highlighted in red). Similarly, early stressors all impact the stress response system, independent of whether the experience reflects a severe deviation from the expectable environment (stress exposures highlighted in blue). Some experiences may be considered both stressful and adverse experiences (highlighted in purple). We provide examples of biological hazards (broken outline) and psychosocial hazards (dotted outline) in each category of adverse and stress experiences.