Adverse
Childhood
Experiences
Understanding, Healing, and
Building Resilience from Early
Childhood Trauma
ADVERSE
C H I L D H O O D
E X P E R I E N C E S
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are traumatic events or
environments that occur during childhood and can have lasting effects
on an individual's physical, emotional, and mental health. While ACEs
can significantly impact a person's development, the presence of
protective factors can help reduce the harmful effects. Protective
factors are qualities or conditions within families, communities, and
individuals that promote resilience, improve overall well-being, and
lower the risk of long-term negative outcomes. When ACEs cannot be
avoided, fostering protective factors can play a crucial role in helping
children and families thrive despite challenges.
Researchers have pinpointed that high stress levels and trauma can
alter a child's brain chemistry, brain structure, and gene expression.
Although stress is a common experience, prolonged chronic stress can
harm both the body and the brain, particularly in children, as early
childhood is crucial for development.
Experiencing multiple ACEs increases the likelihood of facing
negative consequences, such as reduced academic achievement,
joblessness, and engaging in risky health habits like smoking and
substance abuse. Recent studies have revealed a link between ACEs
and a higher probability of misusing prescription opioids.
HEALING & PREVENTING
A D V E R S E C H I L D H O O D
E X P E R I E N C E S
Thankfully, individuals have various options to mitigate the adverse effects of
negative childhood experiences. Protective factors, defined as conditions or
characteristics that enhance the welfare of children and families while decreasing
the risk of harm, play a crucial role. In situations where adverse experiences are
unavoidable, these protective factors act as a buffer, shielding children from the
severe consequences of ACEs and fostering resilience within their environments.
Strong, supportive relationships – Consistent and nurturing connections with
parents, caregivers, or mentors provide emotional security and reduce the impact
of ACEs.
Positive peer relationships – Friendships that offer support, empathy, and healthy
social interactions can help buffer stress.
Parental resilience – A caregiver’s ability to cope with challenges and adapt in the
face of adversity protects both the caregiver and the child from the negative effects
of ACEs.
Safe and stable living environment – A home free from violence, abuse, or neglect
promotes healthy development and emotional well-being.
Access to mental health care – Early and effective therapeutic intervention
supports healing and growth in children exposed to trauma.
HEALING & PREVENTING
A D V E R S E C H I L D H O O D
E X P E R I E N C E S
Positive school environment – Schools that provide a supportive, inclusive, and
nurturing atmosphere help children feel valued and safe.
Community support – Involvement in a strong community with access to
resources, social networks, and support systems can foster a sense of belonging and
resilience.
Emotional regulation skills – Teaching children how to identify and manage their
emotions helps them build resilience and cope with stress.
Opportunities for skill-building – Engaging in activities that develop problem-
solving, communication, and conflict-resolution skills increases a child’s ability to
navigate challenges.
Healthy coping strategies – Encouraging positive ways to manage stress, such as
mindfulness, physical activity, and creative outlets, can reduce the harmful effects
of ACEs.
ADVERSE
C H I L D H O O D
E X P E R I E N C E S
Adverse childhood experiences, known as ACEs, encompass a variety of
stressful events or situations that children may encounter during their
upbringing. These include different forms of abuse and neglect, parental
substance abuse, incarceration, and domestic violence. ACEs can also
involve circumstances that lead to trauma for a child, like having a parent
with a mental illness or being part of a family undergoing a divorce. These
adverse experiences can significantly affect a child's mental health and
contribute to various health conditions, including mental disorders.
A B U S E
H O U S E H O L D
D Y S F U N C T I O N
Mental Illness Divorce
Incarcerated Relative Physical Emotional
Domestic Violence Sexual
Substance Abuse
N E G L E C T
Physical
Emotional
WHAT CAUSES ADVERSE
C H I L D H O O D
E X P E R I E N C E S
Household Dysfunctions:
1. Parental substance abuse – A parent or caregiver struggling with
addiction to alcohol or drugs, leading to instability in the home.
2. Parental mental illness – A parent or caregiver with untreated
mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, impacting their
ability to provide support.
3. Incarceration of a parent – A child’s parent being imprisoned,
leading to separation and emotional strain.
4. Domestic violence – Exposure to violence between caregivers or
within the household, creating a hostile or unsafe environment.
5. Divorce or parental separation – The breakdown of a family unit,
causing emotional distress and instability for the child.
Abuse:
1. Physical abuse – Deliberate infliction of harm, such as hitting,
slapping, or other forms of physical violence.
2. Emotional abuse – Consistent criticism, humiliation, or verbal
assaults that undermine a child’s sense of self-worth.
3. Sexual abuse – Inappropriate sexual contact or behavior directed
toward a child, whether by a caregiver, family member, or another
adult.
Neglect:
1. Physical neglect – Failing to provide basic needs, such as food,
clothing, shelter, or proper supervision.
2. Emotional neglect – Withholding emotional support, love, or
attention, leaving the child feeling isolated or unwanted.
These experiences can deeply impact a child's development, leading to
emotional and psychological challenges later in life.
ACE PYRAMID
The ACE pyramid illustrates the strong connection between Adverse Childhood
Experiences (ACEs) and the development of risk factors for diseases and disabilities
over a person's lifetime. As the count of ACEs in a child's life rises, so does their
susceptibility to these consequences.
EARLY
DEATH
DISEASE AND
DISABILITY, SOCIAL
PROBLEMS
ADOPTION OF HEATH-
RISK
BEHAVIORS
SOCIAL, EMOTIONAL
AND COGNITIVE
DEVELOPMENT
DISRUPTED
NEURODEVELOPMENT
ADVERSE CHILDHOOD
EXPEREINCES
ACEs do not determine your life or who you are. It's crucial to recognize that there
is an association, not causation, between ACEs and future health outcomes. This
emphasizes the need to provide support for young individuals who have faced
adversity and trauma.
ACE’S AND THE BRAIN
Early nurturing and responsive interactions establish a healthy brain architecture,
laying the groundwork for overall well-being and health. Conversely, prolonged
exposure to adverse childhood experiences can lead to toxic stress, potentially
harming a child's developing brain.
Decreases their tolerance
for stress, leading to
increased defiant
behaviors.
Impairs learning,
response, and problem-
solving skills, leading to
"Enhanced challenges
challenges both in
with learning and
school and at home.
memory could
potentially have a
lasting impact."
The rise in stress
hormones impacts It becomes more
the body's capability challenging to form
to combat infections. new friendships and
sustain relationships.
TYPICAL DEVELOPMENTAL
DEVELOPMENT TRAUMA
Cognition Cognition
Social Emotional Social Emotional
Regulation
Regulation
Survival Survival
