Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Feasibility Study

Primary Investigator: Joanne McCloskey, PhD

The Southwest Tribal NARCH ACE feasibility study focuses on the needs of children who have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACE) that contribute to poor child health as well as poor health outcomes in adulthood.  Findings from Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Study (BRFSS) survey data among tribal communities in the Southwest found that a high proportion of adults experienced adverse exposures during childhood.  The link between adverse childhood experiences and poor health indicates the need for effective interventions during childhood to improve the lives of children and reduce the likelihood of multiple health problems as adults.

The Southwest Tribal Native American Research Center for Health and tribal partners are conducting research with community members to guide the development of an intervention for children who have experienced adverse events.  The eight risk factors associated with adverse childhood experiences are:

• Problem drinker, alcoholic, or illicit drug user in home
• Adult in home swore, insulted, put down respondent
• Parents ever separated or divorced
• Physical violence among adults in home
• Physical violence involving respondent in home
• Depressed, mentally ill, or suicidal person in home
• Someone in household went to jail or prison
• Sexual contact by adult in home

The purpose of the research interviews will be to identify children’s needs, existing services, and intervention approaches that will promote resiliency and contribute to improving the health and well-being of children.

For more information on the ACE Feasibility study please contact the SW Tribal NARCH staff