Since the landmark Adverse Childhood Experiences study was published in 1998, researchers around the world have sought to gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms by which trauma can impact health and wellbeing. In less than two decades, the scientific community has come to understand significantly more about how experiences can shape one's development and effect them throughout the lifecourse. Here are three straightforward articles from the Community Resilience Cookbook that provide the background on ACEs:
- Your Brain and Body - mechanisms by which adverse childhood experiences influence health and well-being through the lifespan
- By The Numbers - the surprising information revealed by the ACE Survey
- The Language of ACEs - vocabulary guide about the language of science that was developed to describe the impact of ACEs, trauma and what is called by some, "toxic stress"
These and the following resources can be helpful in broadening your understanding of ACEs and their impact.
The Truth About ACEs
This infographic, developed by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, provides an excellent overview of the results from the original ACE Study.
The Original Adverse Childhood Experiences Study
In 1998, Dr. Robert Anda and Dr. Vincent Felitti published the landmark Adverse Childhood Experiences study. Using data from over 17,000 individuals in San Diego, CA, this study has changed the way many individuals view the health and human service sector and is the basis for the work of the Philadelphia ACE Project.
ACEs Too High
A news site that reports on research about adverse childhood experiences, including developments in epidemiology, neurobiology, and the biomedical and epigenetic consequences of toxic stress. In addition, the site covers how people, organizations, agencies and communities are implementing practices based on the research.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The CDC is a government agency focused on improving health and safety in the US and abroad. They have a myriad of resources related to ACE and trauma research.
TEDTalk about ACEs by Nadine Burke Harris, MD, MPH
Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, founder of the Center for Youth Wellness in San Francisco, CA, gives a compelling talk about the need to address ACEs and trauma through a public health approach.