Objective: To investigate the cumulative and sensitive period effects of family adversity on the outcome of psychopathological symptoms,so as to provide evidence for the prevention and intervention of adverse events. Methods: A total of 710 adolescents were recruited from local schools in rural area of Fuyang,Anhui Province in Dec. 2017 by using the convenience sampling method. The Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire was used to assess family adversity. The MacArthur Health & Behavior Questionnaire was used to assess internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Multiple linear regression model was used to analyze the association between number and time of family adversity and psychopathological symptoms. Results: Persistent family adversity was associated with increased internalizing symptoms [(β(95%CI)=0.35(0.15-0.54)] and increased externalizing symptoms [β(95%CI)=0.16(0.01-0.32)]. 2 and ≥3 family adversities were associated with increased internalizing symptoms[β(95%CI)=0.20(0.04-0.36),0.42(0.24-0.60)]and increased externalizing symptoms[β(95%CI)=0.14(0.01-0.26),0.23(0.09-0.37)]. In childhood family adversity group,2 and ≥3 family adversities were associated with increased internalizing symptoms [β(95%CI)=0.23(0.06-0.41),0.34(0.11-0.58)] and increased externalizing symptoms [β(95%CI)=0.17(0.02-0.31),0.21(0.02-0.39)]. In persistent family adversity group,≥3 family adversities were associated with increased internalizing symptoms[β(95%CI)=0.56(0.31-0.82)] and increased externalizing symptoms [β(95%CI)=0.24(0.02-0.45)]. Adolescence family adversity was not associated with psychopathological symptoms. Conclusion The cumulative family adversity may increase the risk of psychopathological symptoms,and that childhood may be the sensitive period for family adversity to cause psychopathological symptoms.