Keywords
Disabilities ,ACEs, Medical Trauma, Depression, Anxiety
Abstract
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are considered a fair predictor of future physical and mental health outcomes. However, historically, the ACEs framework has not fully incorporated chronic stressors associated with childhood physical disabilities and health conditions. This study proposes an expansion of ACEs to include serious childhood medical issues and events as well as disability-related adversity—such as early experiences of functional limitations, social adversity, and system-wide barriers. This study also explores the correlation between these serious medical issues and disability-related adversity in childhood and psychological issues in early adulthood, including signs of trauma, depression, and anxiety. Understanding these relationships can contribute to trauma-informed practices and create a deeper understanding of the adversity faced by individuals with disabilities.
Thesis Completion Year
2026
Thesis Completion Semester
Spring
Thesis Chair
Martha Hubertz
College
College of Sciences
Department
Psychology
Thesis Discipline
Clinical Psychology
Language
English
Access Status
Open Access
Length of Campus Access
None
Campus Location
Orlando (Main) Campus
STARS Citation
Chergi, Cassidy E., "Expanding Assessment Of Adverse Childhood Expereneces(Aces) To Include Childhood Disabilties And Medical Trauma." (2026). Honors Undergraduate Theses. 497.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/hut2024/497
Included in
Child Psychology Commons, Clinical Psychology Commons, Developmental Psychology Commons, Development Studies Commons, Disability Studies Commons, Health Psychology Commons, Pain Management Commons
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