The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study
Astounding findings about the role of adverse childhood experiences (ACE) on brain development are now available.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) – Childhood Trauma
If you’ve been following my blog or my books, you will have repeatedly read that one of the key risk factors for developing a substance abuse problem and/or addiction is childhood trauma. To further understand this risk factor, I want to draw your attention to an ongoing collaboration between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Kaiser Permanente — the ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) Study.
Based on data collected from over 17,000 adult participants, the ACE Study (likely the largest scientific research study of its kind) analyzes “the relationship between multiple categories of childhood trauma (ACEs) and health and behavioral outcomes later in life.”
Of the major findings, “Childhood abuse, neglect, and exposure to other traumatic stressors which we term adverse childhood experiences (ACE) are common. Almost two-thirds of our study participants reported at least one ACE, and more than one of five reported three or more ACE. The short- and long-term outcomes of these childhood exposures include a multitude of health and social problems.”
For those who have a history of family alcohol or drug abuse, alcoholism or drug addiction, learning more about the ACE Study and its findings will feel like an “ah ha” moment. Two reports specific to the alcoholism and/or drug addiction connection are: Summer, 2003 – ACEs and Alcoholism and Origins of Addiction: Evidence from the ACE Study.
There is a great deal to be found at ACEStudy.org, as well.
Lisa Frederiksen
Latest posts by Lisa Frederiksen (see all)
- Does a Loved One Have to Hit Bottom? - November 20, 2022
- Resources for Parents of Children with Substance Use and Mental Disorders - October 18, 2022
- 4 Things to Support Brain Health and Function for Recovery - August 30, 2022