Adverse Childhood Experiences - 2nd Edition by Gordon J G Asmundson & Tracie O Afifi (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

The second edition of "Adverse Childhood Experiences: Using Evidence to Advance Research, Practice, Policy, and Prevention" delves deeper into the foundational ACEs Study, providing a thorough review alongside comprehensive definitions and assessment methodologies. From mental and physical health outcomes to the neurodevelopmental mechanisms linking ACEs to psychopathology, sexual violence, and sexual health outcomes, this edition presents a nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between adverse experiences and lifelong consequences. Newly incorporated content addresses contemporary issues, redefining ACEs, exploring the appropriateness of routine screening, and contemplating ACEs from a global perspective. Professionals working with children and families, including physicians, nurses, social workers, psychologists, lawyers, judges, public health leaders, policy makers, and government delegates, will find this evidence-based resource invaluable. "Adverse Childhood Experiences" not only equips practitioners with the latest research findings but also presents strategies for preventing ACEs, fostering trauma-informed care, resilience, and emphasizing the crucial role of safe, stable, and nurturing environments for children. This second edition cements its status as an indispensable guide, addressing the evolving landscape of ACEs with precision and relevance.

Review Quotes

Reviews of the previous edition:
"This edited book is a very useful compilation of research and perspectives on the rapidly expanding field of Adverse Childhood Experiences. Its chapters offer a systematic coverage of issues by some of the leading authorities on the topic. Two features are of particular value and interest. Several of the contributors provide important criticisms and cautions about various aspects of the field and its development, such as the definitions of adversities and the proposals to screen for universal screening. In addition, many contributors provide excellent suggestions for future research. Given that much of the ACE literature is scattered in a variety of interdisciplinary journals, this book is a good starting place to get a broad and nuanced exposure to the topic." --David Finkelhor, Department of Sociology, University of New Hampshire

"This outstanding compilation is an indispensable reference for all researchers, clinicians and policy-makers engaged in work on adverse childhood experiences. It provides a history of the landmark ACEs Study and a scientific synthesis of the health outcomes of ACEs, while indicating how the original ACEs Study may inspire future development. The collection has a strong focus on public health and prevention, and embraces the imperative to use research to inform practice. A range of chapters consider issues spanning family environments to social settings, and consider issues from the neuroscience of trauma to resilience and growth. This book should help inform future research directions, clinical practice, and policy approaches to better prevent, identify and respond to childhood adversities." --Professor Ben Mathews, Director, Childhood Adversity Research Program, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia; Adjunct Professor, Johns Hopkins University, Bloomberg School of Public Health