ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences): Early adversities children may face including abuse, neglect, and various household dysfunctions.
Social-Ecological Model: A framework used by the CDC to understand the complex web influencing exposure to ACEs.
Individual Level: Personal characteristics (age, sex), biological factors, personal history.
Relational Level: Interactions in close relationships (family members, care providers), influence of social groups as people age.
Community Level: Settings outside the home (schools, neighborhoods, workplaces), interaction influenced by these settings.
Societal Level: Laws, policies, media, social forces influencing shared values, social norms, and access to opportunities.
Importance of Social Ecology
Complex Web of Factors: No single factor determines exposure to ACEs; it’s a result of individual, interpersonal, social, cultural, and environmental factors.
Influence on Behavior: Social ecology impacts behaviors and likelihood of experiencing ACEs.
Community Services: Availability of services and programs (e.g., to prevent child abuse) impacts risk.
Family History: History of abuse and neglect in parents influences risk for children.
Broader Context
Context for Development: Children and families develop within broader environments including home, community, and sociopolitical contexts.
Supportive Policies: Policies like economic support can reduce stressors for families, aiding better parenting and reducing ACEs.
Multi-Level Impact on Health
Marilyn Metzler's Insight: Health is impacted at individual, relationship, community, and societal levels. Addressing all levels is necessary for best health outcomes.
Disparities Across Groups: Conditions and access to healthy living environments and societal policies vary across different groups.
Risk and Protective Factors
Risk Factors: Attributes increasing the likelihood of ACEs (e.g., poverty, exposure to community violence, poor social connections).
Protective Factors: Mitigate or offset impact of risk factors (e.g., supportive family networks, community support for parents, access to social services).
Examples of Protective Factors
Supportive Family Networks: Provide safety and emotional support for children.
Community Support: Communities supporting parents with resources and services.
Access to Social Services: Essential services that help buffer the impact of ACEs.
Exploration Task
Investigate Risk Factors: Identify and understand factors putting children at risk for ACEs.