Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (2 HR) Syllabus
I. The Origin and Core Concepts of ACES
- CDC-Kaiser Permanente ACE Study background
- Definition: potentially traumatic childhood events (0-17 years)
- Early research involving over 17,000 participants
- Relationship between ACEs and lifelong physical, mental, and behavioral outcomes
II. Types of Adverse Childhood Experiences
- Abuse: physical, emotional, sexual
- Neglect: physical and emotional
- Household dysfunction: domestic violence, substance abuse, mental illness, incarceration, parental separation
III. The Lasting Impact of ACES on Health and Development
- Toxic stress response and neurodevelopmental disruption
- Chronic health problems: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer
- Mental health issues: anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance abuse
- Educational and occupational consequences
IV. Neurobiological and Epigenetic Effects of ACES
- Constant cortisol activation impacting brain structures
- Impairments in emotional regulation, executive functioning, memory, and learning
- Epigenetic changes potentially transmitted across generations
V. Identifying and Assessing Signs and Symptoms of ACES
- Behavioral indicators in children and adolescents
- Physical signs such as bruises and injuries inconsistent with developmental capabilities
- Emotional abuse indicators: fear, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles
- Caregiver behaviors: detachment, inappropriate discipline, unrealistic expectations
VI. The Role of Domestic Violence in ACES
- Increased risk of abuse and psychological trauma in households with domestic violence
- PTSD symptoms in children exposed to domestic violence
- Emotional burden and potential for intergenerational transmission of trauma
VII. Risk Factors That Increase Vulnerability to ACES
- Family caregiving challenges and unresolved caregiver trauma
- Poverty, limited education, and economic stress
- Inconsistent supervision and lack of social support
- Parental conflict, corporal punishment, and normalization of violence
VIII. Protective Factors That Mitigate ACES Impact
- Stable, nurturing relationships within the family
- Positive peer networks and supportive adult mentors
- Consistent parental monitoring, supervision, and peaceful conflict resolution
- Community support: economic stability, safe housing, accessible healthcare, strong neighborhood ties
IX. Prevention Strategies and Community Interventions
- Strengthening economic support and family-friendly policies
- Public awareness and legislative actions to reduce violence
- Parenting education, early intervention, and positive child engagement programs
- Community partnerships addressing long-term and systemic factors
X. Case Study Application and Discussion
- Review of ACES case study scenarios
- Practical application of assessment, intervention, and prevention strategies
- Collaborative discussion to reinforce concepts and skills