Understanding Stress, Resilience, and the Experiences That Shape Us
At Origins Training & Consulting, we believe that understanding stress begins with understanding experiences.
The surveys below are short reflection tools that help people explore experiences that influence stress, resilience, and wellbeing across the lifespan.
These surveys are not diagnostic tools. They are designed to educate, spark reflection, and help people understand the science of stress and resilience.
Each survey takes about 3–5 minutes to complete.
Explore the Surveys
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Survey
The ACEs Survey explores experiences in childhood that research has shown may increase the impact of toxic stress across the lifespan.
The original Adverse Childhood Experiences Study, conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kaiser Permanente, revealed how early adversity can influence health, relationships, and wellbeing later in life.
Understanding ACEs helps individuals and organizations recognize why trauma-informed approaches and supportive environments matter.
You will explore:
- How early adversity can influence stress responses
- Why trauma-informed approaches matter
- The importance of safe and supportive relationships
Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCEs) Survey
While adversity matters, so do the positive experiences that support resilience.
The Benevolent Childhood Experiences Survey highlights experiences that help children feel safe, supported, and connected.
Research by Narayan, Rivera, Bernstein, Harris, & Lieberman (2018) found that positive childhood experiences can buffer stress and support healthy development—even when adversity is present.
You will explore:
- Protective experiences that support resilience
- The power of supportive relationships
- How connection helps regulate stress
Adult Resilience Survey
(Devereux Adult Resilience Survey – DARS)
Resilience is not just something we develop in childhood. It is something we continue to build throughout our lives.
The Devereux Adult Resilience Survey (DARS) focuses on protective factors that help adults manage stress and maintain connection during challenging times.
The survey explores strengths related to:
- Relationships and connection
- Initiative and problem solving
- Internal beliefs and self-confidence
- Self-control and regulation
Understanding these strengths helps people identify ways to increase capacity and build resilience over time.
Why These Surveys Matter
Stress does not occur in isolation.
Our capacity to navigate challenges is shaped by:
- Experiences of adversity
- Experiences of support and belonging
- The strengths and relationships we build over time
Looking at ACEs, BCEs, and adult resilience together helps create a fuller understanding of how people develop the capacity to adapt, connect, and grow.
This shared language is the foundation of trauma-informed and resilience-focused communities.
What Happens After You Complete a Survey?
After finishing a survey, you will have the opportunity to:
- Explore the other surveys
- Learn more about the science of stress and resilience
- Access training and resources from Origins Training & Consulting
You will also be invited to join the Resilience Learning Community, where people continue learning together.
Follow Us:
Getting Started: A Guide from Trauma to Resilience