Resource Library-Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

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An Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) score is a measure of various forms of abuse, neglect, and other difficult experiences a person may have had during their childhood. A majority of Americans have at least one ACE. ACEs are disruptions to safe, stable, and nurturing family relationships that occur before the age of 18 and can have significant impacts on a person's development and well-being throughout their life.<br /><br />Some common ACEs include emotional and physical neglect, domestic violence, substance use, mental illness in the household, parental separation or divorce, and incarceration of a family member. These experiences can undermine a child's sense of safety and stability, leading to negative health outcomes and susceptibility to mental health challenges. They can also impair social, emotional, and cognitive functioning and increase the likelihood of adopting health risk behaviors.<br /><br />Socio-economically disadvantaged populations are more likely to have higher ACEs. ACEs can limit life opportunities and impact a person's health and quality of life. Integrating ACEs into clinical practice involves recognizing and addressing the impact of trauma, incorporating ACEs into risk assessments and treatment plans, and regularly screening for early adversities to provide appropriate interventions and support.<br /><br />ACEs are a significant public health issue with far-reaching short- and long-term consequences, resulting in substantial economic and social costs. Taking a trauma-informed approach can help professionals respond to the effects of trauma and prevent further traumatization. The goal is to provide individuals with the necessary tools to lead healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives, despite their ACEs.

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Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events that occur before age 18 that have an impact on future victimization and perpetration of violence and lifelong health and opportunities.

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Keywords

Adverse Childhood Experience

ACE score

abuse

neglect

safe family relationships

development

mental health challenges

trauma

interventions

public health issue