Date

12-16-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Human Services: Emphasis in Forensic Behavioral Health

Department

Human Services

First Advisor

Jerrod Brown

Abstract

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have emerged as a critical area of research in childhood development and the prevention of criminal behavior. The framework of this topic continually provides updated information on the impact of criminal behavior on children. Understanding the long-term effects of trauma on mental health, the influence of criminal behavior, and patterns of recidivism across the lifespan when children are exposed to a single form of adversity or multiple forms of adversity. This research aims to synthesize recent empirical data/findings of how specific ACEs, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, exposure to familial violence, and household substance misuse, can impact and shape a child’s life into adulthood. Additionally, evaluating how parental mental health can expose children to trauma and other mental health adversities. This work will provide an integrated, up-to-date information to continue to clarify the importance of noticing signs of how maltreatment, adversity, and trauma can disrupt the neurodevelopment of children. This project aims to emphasize what such extreme adversities, such as physical abuse and sexual abuse, can do to children. These findings can help identify potential trajectories for children if left untreated, influenced into criminal behavior, and continue the cycle of trauma and crime. This research will hold substantial value to the Human Service Profession and anyone seeking to understand the impact of maltreatment on children.

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