In simple terms: The I-PACE model helps show how a person’s characteristics, feelings, thoughts, and actions can interact. This part focuses on personal risk factors—things that may make someone more likely to experience difficulties.
The model includes a general factor called psychopathology. It cannot be measured directly, so researchers look for signs that may point to it. These signs include ADHD, anxiety, depression, social problems, and conduct disorder.
It also lists personal experiences and traits that may affect someone’s risk:
- Negative life events: upsetting or difficult experiences that may affect a person’s mind and body.
- Impulsivity: acting quickly without thinking through what might happen next.
- Family conflict: frequent arguments or tension at home.
- Bullying: being repeatedly hurt, threatened, or excluded by others.
These factors do not mean that a person will definitely develop a problem. They are possible influences that can combine with other parts of life.