Our project explores how Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) effect emotional and behavioral development of children prior to the age of 18 in the United States. We utilized national data from 2021-2023 National Survey of Children’s Health. Our outcomes pointed to a consistent pattern that the more adversity a child was exposed to, the less likely they are to flourish emotionally and more likely to struggle with mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral challenges. Despite the national child population slight shift, the relationship between ACEs and developmental outcomes remained the same. From our project, we want people to realize the lasting mark that is left behind by adverse childhood experiences. At the same time, awareness, prevention, and supportive environments can create a inverse positive response.
