Abstract

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) refer to any traumatic event from birth to 18 years of age that can have negative effects to a child’s development and health. Any form of abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction constitutes an adverse childhood experience initiating immediate and long-term outcomes. Reoccurring and prolonged exposures to adversity can turn into toxic stress. These experiences take a toll on children’s brain development, growth, immune and other regulatory systems, learning, behavior, and genetic outcomes. Although ACEs are common, some populations may be more susceptible to adversities. Families who have limited economic advantages and histories of ACEs, racism, and poverty are at higher risk of intergenerational adversity. Furthermore, ACEs are also linked to coronary heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, depression, obesity, and other chronic diseases later in life. Fortunately, recent studies have suggested these effects can be mitigated by assisting children with developing individual characteristics, establishing safe nurturing environments, and through family and community support. Promoting secure attachment has been found to be the most effective buffer in building children’s resilience. By looking through trauma-informed lens, society can take an active role in spreading ACE awareness and implementing prevention and intervention strategies to better help children succeed.

Keywords: Adverse childhood experiences, Trauma, Resilience, Protective factors

Year Manuscript Completed

Summer 2024

Senior Project Advisor

Tricia Jordan, PhD

Degree Awarded

Bachelor of Integrated Studies Degree

Field of Study

Educational Studies

Document Type

Thesis

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