Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

School

Public Health

Advisor

Stacy-Ann Christian

Abstract

The effects from childhood trauma can interfere in all aspects of a child’s life, including their education. School delivery systems need to be trained to identify these risks and how to reduce further risks of re-traumatization by applying trauma-informed practices. This study addressed the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on mental health and behavioral issues. The study was guided by Bandura’s social cognitive theory and the socioecological model. The correlation between ACEs and mental health as well as ACEs and physical violence were examined based on data from the 2019 Nevada Youth Risk Behavioral Survey, which was a high school survey with ACE questions. Results revealed a significance between ACEs and poor mental health outcomes among students as well as ACEs and students involved in physical violence on school campus. The implications for positive social change include a greater awareness of trauma during childhood, which can help identify and reduce adverse experiences and improve children’s overall quality of life with the implementation of interventions.

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