Neurobiological and socio-behavioral research indicate that early life conditions, including social supports (e.g., supportive relationships) and adversity (e.g., chronic stress), shape prenatal and early childhood development. These exposures unfold through the social determinants of health (e.g., education, housing, physical and social environment, etc.). Programs and policies designed to mitigate these adverse conditions, however, have not always had the positive effects intended for the majority of recipients of these programs.

Learn more about the National Academy of Medicine’s Culture of Health Program.