Addressing adverse childhood experiences and other types of trauma in the primary care setting

Date

2014

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

American Academy of Pediatrics

Abstract

For many pediatricians, addressing exposure to traumatic events that could cause toxic stress in their patients is seen as difficult for a number of reasons, including lack of time, complexity of the topics, limited referral resources, and discomfort. At the same time, the study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Kaiser Permanente on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)1 emphasized the effect of trauma on the developing brain and health across the life span—a natural concern for all pediatricians. Importantly, ACEs described in the study are present in every socioeconomic level and can be devastating to a child’s physical, mental, and emotional health and well-being into adulthood. This document provides initial suggestions for pediatricians to consider when addressing ACEs in their practices.

Description

Keywords

adverse experiences, trauma, primary care setting

Citation

American Academy of Pediatrics (2014). Addressing adverse childhood experiences and other types of trauma in the primary care setting. Elk Grove Village, IL: AAP.

DOI