Investigating The Role Of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Youth (10-18) Homelessness And Substance Abuse Through Community Based Interventions

Abstract

Objective: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are possibly traumatic events that occur in one's childhood and can have long-term effects on an individual's health. The purpose of this project is to investigate the roles of these adverse childhood experiences in hopes of mitigating homelessness and substance abuse among youth through community-based intervention. 

Methods: Using research databases like Google Scholar and PubMed, a literature review was conducted on: ACEs in youth, the effects they have on homelessness and substance abuse, and the limitations and strengths of existing youth substance abuse prevention programs. An analysis was then conducted using the successes and failures of the programs to create a formal classroom program for youth.

Results: Results from the analysis of these studies shows ACEs can have a heavy influence on homelessness and substance abuse among youth. These events can have long-term effects on youth’s physical and mental health. Substance abuse prevention programs can be an effective way to deter the effects of ACEs. Programs like Keepin’ It Real and SmartCoach were two examples of youth substance abuse prevention programs that had an effect in reducing substance abuse rates.

Conclusions: Life-skills training specifically can be highly effective in preventing worse health outcomes for those who already experienced ACEs. To determine this, a deep dive on these studies was conducted and there is a clear need for life-skills training. I am proposing a classroom curriculum that pairs this teaching with monthly meetings with a licensed therapist, youth will have access to the tools necessary to manage their trauma during their formative teen years.