Growing Greatness
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are defined as stressful or traumatic events that occur prior to 18 years old. ACEs are grouped into three categories: abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction.
ACEs are highly prevalent. The 1998 CDC-Kaiser ACE Study found that nearly 66% of respondents reported at least one ACE and more than 12% reported four or more ACEs. Although ACEs are common across all populations, some communities are disproportionately affected given social and structural inequities.
A consensus of scientific evidence demonstrates that high doses of cumulative adversity experienced during critical and sensitive periods of early life development can lead to significant, negative effects on an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional health. ACEs are strongly associated, in a dose-response fashion, with some of the most common, serious, and costly health conditions, including nine of the ten leading causes of death In the United States.
However, exposure to ACEs does not inevitably determine an individual’s future. The presence of buffering protections of safe, stable, and nurturing relationships and environments can mitigate the detrimental effects of ACEs and foster resilience. Interventions and programs aimed at promoting positive childhood experiences can promote healthy development, cognitive growth, and social skills, enhancing individuals' ability to navigate challenges and setbacks.