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Adverse Childhood Experiences

Site: OpenLearn Create
Course: Aiming Higher for the Disabled Community: Induction and Training
Book: Adverse Childhood Experiences
Printed by: Guest user
Date: Saturday, 22 November 2025, 7:19 AM

Description

This section covers Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE's).

Table of contents

1. Introduction

This part of your course is only a brief overview. You will be required to complete the full ACE's training course which is 50 minutes long. The link will be provided at the end of this section.

2. What are Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) refer to stressful or traumatic events that occur during childhood. These experiences can have a lasting impact on an individual’s physical and mental health throughout their life. ACEs are typically categorized into three main areas:

  1. Abuse:

    • Physical Abuse: Physical harm or injury inflicted by a parent, caregiver, or other trusted adult.
    • Emotional Abuse: Verbal or psychological mistreatment that undermines a child’s self-esteem and emotional well-being.
    • Sexual Abuse: Inappropriate sexual contact or exposure to sexual content.

  2. Neglect:

    • Physical Neglect: Failure to provide basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter.
    • Emotional Neglect: Lack of emotional support, attention, or affection from caregivers.

  3. Household Dysfunction:

    • Domestic Violence: Witnessing violence between parents or caregivers.
    • Substance Abuse: Living with a family member who abuses alcohol or drugs.
    • Mental Illness: Exposure to a household member with untreated mental health issues.
    • Parental Separation or Divorce: The disruption of family stability due to divorce or separation.

3. The effects of ACEs

The impact of ACEs on individuals can manifest in various ways. Physically, ACEs have been linked to a higher likelihood of chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. These experiences can also affect brain development and increase the risk of cognitive impairments and learning difficulties.

Furthermore, ACEs can significantly impact mental health outcomes, leading to a higher incidence of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other psychiatric disorders. Individuals with a history of ACEs are also more likely to engage in risky behaviours such as substance abuse, self-harm, and reckless activities.

Behaviourally, ACEs can influence a person's ability to form healthy relationships, regulate emotions, and cope with stress. This can result in difficulties with social interactions, a higher likelihood of engaging in violent or criminal behaviour, and challenges in maintaining stable employment and housing.

It is crucial to recognize the lasting effects of ACEs and provide support and interventions to mitigate their impact. Early identification and intervention can help individuals heal from past trauma, build resilience, and lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. By addressing the root causes of ACEs and providing trauma-informed care, we can create a more supportive environment for those who have experienced childhood adversity.

4. Introduction to Adverse Childhood Experiences Online Learning

Please click here to complete the 'Introduction to Adverse Childhood Experiences Early Trauma' Online Learning. The link will open in a new window.

This course will take approximately 50 minutes to complete. 

Please ensure that you complete the course to receive your certificate, which then needs to be shared with your line manager. 

You will also be able to access further resources from the website, including more in depth videos and publications.

Please return here to continue your training.