Trauma informed practice and ACES: Critical perspectives on children’s mental health and domestic abuse

Citation

Callaghan J (2018) Trauma informed practice and ACES: Critical perspectives on children’s mental health and domestic abuse. Children’s wellbeing, safety and relationships: A one day conference, University of Stirling, Iris Murdoch Building, 24.05.2018-24.05.2018. https://stirling.cloud.panopto.eu/Panopto/Pages/Viewer.aspx?id=f9ffe14c-2c38-40e0-9f02-ab510108535f

Abstract
This paper explores the evidence around the impact of domestic abuse as Adverse Childhood Event, with a particular focus on evidence of neural impact and emotional development. I argue that domestic abuse is an important and often overlooked issue for mental health practitioners, but consider critically the implications of the popularisation of the ACEs model, and of neurodevelopmental accounts of trauma. In particular, I consider the relative value of this approach in supporting recovery for children and for their mothers, and whether it can be a useful account in enabling resilience, agency and resistance for children in the aftermath of violence.

Keywords
ACES, adverse childhood experiences, domestic abuse, children's outcomes

Notes
This paper is currently under review for publication. In the interim, please cite the conference paper.

People

Professor Jane Callaghan

Director Child Wellbeing & Protection, Social Work