Concept 6: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

This concept focuses on the complex world of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). This is a field of study that came into public awareness in 1998 with the publication of the ACEs Study by Drs. Felitti and Andra, working in collaboration with the US Centers for Disease Control. ACEs are ten forms of abuse and neglect that children endure in their homes, controlled by parents and other adults. ACEs can lead to being in a state of fight or flight 24/7. ACEs and the trauma that may result from ten forms of abuse and neglect does not necessarily end in childhood. ACEs may impact an adult’s physical and emotional health, capacity to learn, ability to be job ready and keep a job, and be a caring parent. During a public health crisis or economic disruption, people with high ACEs scores may feel especially insecure and destabilized.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Describe ten adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
2. Describe consequences of ACEs and trauma on physical and emotional health
3. Describe consequences of ACEs and trauma on students and learning
4. Describe consequences of ACEs and trauma on a person’s capacity to parent and how ACEs-related behaviors can be passed down generation to generation
5. Describe consequences of ACEs and trauma on job readiness and workplace performance
6. Describe the physical and emotional response to trauma (which might include ‘flight or fight” response)
7. Describe what “trauma-informed” means and how it is does or does not impact rates of ACEs and services for prevention and treatment
8. Describe how leaders in government allow, by action or inaction, allow the community environments (including lack of vital services) that allow ACEs to exist

GETTING ANSWERS AND INSIGHTS