APA Dictionary of Psychology

stressful, traumatic, or harmful experiences that occur during childhood and that can negatively affect a child’s physical, emotional, cognitive, and social development, especially when they are chronic, severe, or occur without adequate support. Adverse childhood experiences include neglect, abuse or maltreatment (e.g., physical, psychological, or sexual abuse), family dysfunction (e.g., domestic violence, parental substance use or mental illness), chronic stressors (e.g., poverty, food insecurity, community violence), loss, and lack of stability (e.g., unstable housing). Chronic adversity can dysregulate a child’s physiological stress systems, contributing to hyperarousal and inflammation that increase long-term risk for a range of health conditions (see allostasis). The presence of interventions and protective factors, such as stable, supportive relationships with caregivers, schools, or communities, can buffer the effects and promote resilience, highlighting the importance of early prevention and trauma-informed care. Also called adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).