Challenge

Nearly half of all U.S. children are exposed to at least one adverse childhood experience (ACE), such as abuse, neglect, incarceration of a family member, substance use in the home, divorce, or domestic violence. Potential long-term impacts of ACEs can include serious mental illness, health problems, unemployment, and addiction—particularly to opioids.

Research shows that using trauma-informed approaches positively impacts the recovery and healthy development of young children with ACEs. EDC is co-leading work to advance the use of effective trauma-informed approaches by highlighting new research and sharing the positive effects of these approaches on children, families, and communities.

Key Activities

The project aims to improve outcomes for trauma-affected children and families. EDC is carrying out the following activities:

  • Conduct a scan of trauma-informed programs to identify successful models  
  • Host an expert convening to deepen understanding of the role of trauma-informed approaches in addressing ACEs
  • Conduct key informant interviews on the real-life application of trauma-informed approaches
  • Release an issue brief and hold a national webinar
  • Identify gaps and opportunities in the use of trauma-informed approaches to inform future policy and research

Impact

  • Co-authored a research summary highlighting the science of building resilience and the protective factors communities can provide for children and families
  • Identified 13 programs with promising approaches
  • Convened 52 experts on trauma-informed approaches from across the nation representing federal and local efforts
  • Engaged 270 people in a national webinar on trauma-informed approaches

Learn More

Trauma-Informed Approaches: Connecting Research, Policy, and Practice to Build Resilience in Children and Families
:
DURATION
2018–Present
FUNDED BY
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
PARTNERS

James Bell Associates