New research from Michigan State University finds that how young adults recall adverse childhood experiences fluctuates based on the current quality of their relationships — particularly with their parents.

In a study tracking nearly 1,000 emerging adults over a two-month period, researchers asked participants three times about memories of their experiences growing up before turning 18. Each time, participants reported on their adverse childhood experiences, as well as their current relationships with parents, friends and romantic partners.

The research team, led by MSU Associate Professor William Chopik, found that while reports of childhood adversity remained stable, they did see meaningful differences in participants’ answers over the eight weeks of the study. The most consistent predictor of these fluctuations was relationship quality. When people reported more support and less strain from their parents than usual, they tended to report fewer adverse childhood experiences, particularly emotional abuse, sexual abuse and neglect.