In recent years, increased attention has been given to screening children and adolescents for adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). ACEs include growing up in homes involving violence, abuse, neglect, mental health or substance abuse issues, parental separation, or incarceration. Researchers have found that ACEs negatively impact mental and physical health in adulthood and can limit life opportunities (CDC, 2020). Through screening, social workers can identify these experiences in a child’s life and then consider methods to prevent or mitigate the negative effects. Some screening tools have even been expanded to include related life events that contribute to toxic stress, in order to get a broader picture of a child’s experiences.
2
ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES (ACES) SCREENING
In recent years, increased attention has been given to screening children and adolescents for adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). ACEs include growing up in homes involving violence, abuse, neglect, mental health or substance abuse issues, parental separation, or incarceration. Researchers have found that ACEs negatively impact mental and physical health in adulthood and can limit life opportunities (CDC, 2020). Through screening, social workers can identify these experiences in a child’s life and then consider methods to prevent or mitigate the negative effects. Some screening tools have even been expanded to include related life events that contribute to toxic stress, in order to get a broader picture of a child’s experiences.
For this Assignment, you act as a social worker screening Juan Hernandez Jr. for ACEs and related life events. You then consider what you learned from the screening and how you would work with the family.
Reference:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, April 3).
Adverse childhood experiences (ACES). https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/index.html
RESOURCES
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity.
Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
TO PREPARE:
· Review the Learning Resources on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
· Review the Hernandez family case in the “Social Work Case Studies” interactive media.
· Download the Pediatric ACEs and Related Life Events Screener and use it to complete this Assignment.
BY DAY 7
Complete the Pediatric ACEs and Related Life Events Screener for Juan Jr.
Then, in a 1- to 2-page paper, analyze what you learned from the assessment and how you might use it in practice. In your paper, address the following:
· What plans would you make for working with this family based on the identified ACEs?
· How would you administer the ACEs assessment in this case or other cases involving young children?
Please use the Learning Resources or other scholarly resources to support your analysis.
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REFERENCES
· Zastrow, C. H., Kirst-Ashman, K. K., & Hessenauer, S. L. (2019).
Understanding human behavior and the social environment (11th ed.). Cengage Learning.
· Chapter 3, “Psychological Development in Infancy and Childhood” (pp. 95–158)
· Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, April 3).
Adverse childhood experiences (ACES)
Links to an external site.
. https://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/aces/index.html
· Finkelhor, D. (2020).
Trends in adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in the United StatesLinks to an external site.
.
Child Abuse & Neglect,
108. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2020.104641
· National Pediatric Practice Community on Adverse Childhood Experiences. (n.d).
Pediatric ACEs and related life events screener
Links to an external site.
. https://www.acesaware.org/pdf_wrapper/pearls-tool-child-parent-caregiver-report-identified-english-rev-7-26-22/
· Download and use the
PEARLS tool – Child (Parent – Caregiver Report) for the Assignment.
MEDIA
· Walden University, LLC. (2021).
Social work case studies
Links to an external site.
[Interactive media]. https://waldenu.instructure.com
· Navigate to the Hernandez Family
Rubric
SOCW_6200_Week3_Assignment_Rubric
SOCW_6200_Week3_Assignment_Rubric | |||
Criteria |
Ratings |
Pts |
|
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeBased on the Pediatric ACEs and Related Life Events Screener for the case study: … Analyze what you learned from the assessment and how you might use it in practice. |
18 to >16.02 pts Exceeds Expectation Response meets expectations and expands upon the analysis by drawing multiple (three or more) and/or varied connections between the assessment and the case study. … Response provides specific and/or added examples for how learning from the assessment can be applied in practice. 16.02 to >14.22 pts Meets Expectation Response clearly analyzes learning from the ACEs assessment, connecting one or two relevant aspects of the assessment with the case study. … Response explains how learning from the assessment can be applied in practice. 14.22 to >12.42 pts Fair Response attempts to analyze learning from the ACEs assessment but with only vague or less developed connections to aspects of the assessment and/or the case study. … Response identifies ways in which learning from the assessment can be applied in practice but does not elaborate or demonstrate application. 12.42 to >0 pts Needs Improvement Response fails to or does not attempt to analyze learning from the ACEs assessment and/or the case study. … Response does not attempt to apply concepts to practice. |
18 pts |
|
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWhat plans would you make for working with this family based on the identified ACEs? |
18 to >16.02 pts Exceeds Expectation Response meets expectations and expands with well-developed connections between the plan and the identified ACEs. … Two or more scholarly resources are used to support the plan. 16.02 to >14.22 pts Meets Expectation Response provides a plan for working with the family that is based on the identified ACEs. … At least one scholarly resource is used to support the plan. 14.22 to >12.42 pts Fair Response provides a plan for working with the family, but its connection to the identified ACEs is vague, or the plan lacks specificity. … Only non-scholarly resources are used to support the plan. 12.42 to >0 pts Needs Improvement The response fails to provide a plan for working with the family and/or lacks any connection to the identified ACEs. … No resources are used to support the response. |
||
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeHow would you administer the ACEs assessment in this case or other cases involving young children? |
15 to >13.35 pts Exceeds Expectation Response meets expectations and provides specific and/or added examples to describe ACEs administration. At least two scholarly resources are used to support the response. 13.35 to >11.85 pts Meets Expectation Response describes how the student would administer the ACEs assessment in this case or other cases involving young children, using examples from the course case study or other cases. At least one scholarly resource is used to support the response. 11.85 to >10.35 pts Fair Response description is vague or limited and/or only addresses how to administer the ACEs assessment without connection to the case study. … Only non-scholarly resources are used to support the plan. 10.35 to >0 pts Needs Improvement Response makes little or no attempt to describe how to administer the ACEs assessment. … No resources are used to support the response. |
15 pts |
|
This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeWriting |
9 to >8.01 pts Exceeds Expectation Paper meets length requirements, meets expectations, is generally error free (two or fewer), and further exceeds by showcasing an exemplary scholarly voice to develop its message or communicate ideas. … Paper appropriately paraphrases sources, using one or less quotes. … Tone and presentation of ideas are free from bias and objective, unless otherwise directed in the prompt. 8.01 to >7.11 pts Meets Expectation Paper meets length requirements and is clear and coherent. Errors in grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation are minor, minimal (three to five), and do not interfere with the scholarly message. The paper displays effective organization and focus to communicate ideas. … Paper appropriately paraphrases sources. Paper may use two to three short quotes but provides appropriate reference. … Tone and presentation of ideas are free from bias and objective, unless otherwise directed in the prompt. 7.11 to >6.21 pts Fair Paper does not meet length requirements either somewhat too short or too long. The paper is somewhat clear and coherent. Errors in grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation are minor but frequent (five to 10) and occasionally interfere with the message. The paper lacks clear organization or occasionally strays from the focus. … Paper may rely on four short quotes or one to two long quotes (over 40 words) and/or does not sufficiently paraphrase material from other resources into student’s own words. … Tone and presentation of ideas are free from bias and objective, unless otherwise directed in the prompt. 6.21 to >0 pts Needs Improvement Paper does not meet length requirements either significantly too short or too long. The paper lacks clarity and coherence. Errors in grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation are major, pervasive (11+), and interfere with the message. The paper is not organized or lacks focus. … Paper relies excessively on quoting (five or more quotes) or three or more long quotes (over 40 words), and/or uses quoted material without paraphrasing or referencing the source of the material. … Tone and presentation of ideas reveal bias and subjectivity. |
9 pts |
|
Total Points: 60 |
Previous
Next
Pediatric ACEs and Related Life Events Screener
CHILD
Many families experience stressful life events.
Over time these experiences can affect your
child’s health and wellbeing. We would like to ask
you questions about your child so we can help
them be as healthy as possible.
CHILD – To be completed by: Caregiver
At any point in time since your child was born, has your child seen or been present when the
following experiences happened? Please include past and present experiences.
Please note, some questions have more than one part separated by “OR.” If any part of the
question is answered “Yes,” then the answer to the entire question is “Yes.”
PART 1: Please check “Yes” where apply. √
Child (Parent/Caregiver Report) – Identified
1. Has your child ever lived with a parent/caregiver who went to jail/prison?
2. Do you think your child ever felt unsupported, unloved and/or unprotected?
3. Has your child ever lived with a parent/caregiver who had mental health issues?
(for example, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or an anxiety disorder)
4. Has a parent/caregiver ever insulted, humiliated, or put down your child?
5. Has the child’s biological parent or any caregiver ever had, or currently has a problem with
too much alcohol, street drugs or prescription medications use?
6. Has your child ever lacked appropriate care by any caregiver?
(for example, not being protected from unsafe situations, or not cared for when sick or
injured even when the resources were available)
7. Has your child ever seen or heard a parent/caregiver being screamed at, sworn at, insulted
or humiliated by another adult?
Or has your child ever seen or heard a parent/caregiver being slapped, kicked, punched
beaten up or hurt with a weapon?
8. Has any adult in the household often or very often pushed, grabbed, slapped or thrown
something at your child?
Or has any adult in the household ever hit your child so hard that your child had marks or
was injured?
Or has any adult in the household ever threatened your child or acted in a way that made
your child afraid that they might be hurt?
9. Has your child ever experienced sexual abuse?
(for example, anyone touched your child or asked your child to touch that person in a way
that was unwanted, or made your child feel uncomfortable, or anyone ever attempted or
actually had oral, anal, or vaginal sex with your child)
This tool was created in partnership with UCSF School of Medicine.
10. Have there ever been significant changes in the relationship status of the child’s
caregiver(s)?
(for example, a parent/caregiver got a divorce or separated, or a romantic partner moved in
or out)
Please continue to the other side for the rest of questionnaire
How many “Yes” did you answer in Part 1?:
PART 2: Please check “Yes” where apply.
Child (Parent/Caregiver Report) – Identified
√
1. Has your child ever seen, heard, or been a victim of violence in your neighborhood,
community or school?
(for example, targeted bullying, assault or other violent actions, war or terrorism)
2. Has your child experienced discrimination?
(for example, being hassled or made to feel inferior or excluded because of their race,
ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, learning differences, or disabilities)
3. Has your child ever had problems with housing?
(for example, being homeless, not having a stable place to live, moved more than two
times in a six-month period, faced eviction or foreclosure, or had to live with multiple
families or family members)
4. Have you ever worried that your child did not have enough food to eat or that the food for
your child would run out before you could buy more?
6. Has your child ever lived with a parent/caregiver who had a serious physical illness
or disability?
5. Has your child ever been separated from their parent or caregiver due to foster care, or
immigration?
7. Has your child ever lived with a parent or caregiver who died?
How many “Yes” did you answer in Part 2?:
This tool was created in partnership with UCSF School of Medicine.
-
Pediatric ACEs and Related Life Events Screener (PEARLS)
PART 1:
PART 2:
- Part 1: 1:
- Part 1: 2:
- Part 1: 3:
- Part 1: 4:
- Part 1: 5:
- Part 1: 6:
- Part 1: 7:
- Part 1: 8:
- Part 1: 9:
- Part 1: 10:
- How many “Yes” did you answer in Part 1?:
- Part 2: 1:
- Part 2: 2:
- Part 2: 3:
- Part 2: 4:
- Part 2: 5:
- Part 2: 6:
- Part 2: 7:
- How many “Yes” did you answer in Part 2?:
- Text1:
- Text2:
Has your child ever lived with a parent/caregiver who went to jail/prison?: Off
Do you think your child ever felt unsupported, unloved and/or unprotected?: Off
Has your child ever lived with a parent/caregiver who had mental health issues? (for example, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or an anxiety disorder): Off
Has a parent/caregiver ever insulted, humiliated, or put down your child?: Off
Has the child’s biological parent or any caregiver ever had, or currently has a problem with too much alcohol, street drugs or prescription medications use?: Off
Has your child ever lacked appropriate care by any caregiver? Has your child ever lacked appropriate care by any caregiver?: Off
Has your child ever seen or heard a parent/caregiver being screamed at, sworn at, insulted or humiliated by another adult? Or has your child ever seen or heard a parent/caregiver being slapped, kicked, punched beaten up or hurt with a weapon?: Off
Has any adult in the household often or very often pushed, grabbed, slapped or thrown something at your child? Or has any adult in the household ever hit your child so hard that your child had marks or was injured? Or has any adult in the household ever threatened your child or acted in a way that made your child afraid that they might be hurt?: Off
Has your child ever experienced sexual abuse? (for example, anyone touched your child or asked your child to touch that person in a way that was unwanted, or made your child feel uncomfortable, or anyone ever attempted or actually had oral, anal, or vaginal sex with your child): Off
Have there ever been significant changes in the relationship status of the child’s caregiver(s)? (for example, a parent/caregiver got a divorce or separated, or a romantic partner moved in or out): Off
Has your child ever seen, heard, or been a victim of violence in your neighborhood, community or school?: Off
Has your child experienced discrimination? (for example, being hassled or made to feel inferior or excluded because of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, learning differences, or disabilities): Off
Has your child ever had problems with housing? (for example, being homeless, not having a stable place to live, moved more than two times in a six-month period, faced eviction or foreclosure, or had to live with multiple families or family members): Off
Have you ever worried that your child did not have enough food to eat or that the food for your child would run out before you could buy more?: Off
Has your child ever been separated from their parent or caregiver due to foster care, or immigration?: Off
Has your child ever lived with a parent/caregiver who had a serious physical illness or disability?: Off
Has your child ever lived with a parent or caregiver who died?: Off
2
Adverse Childhood Experiences (Aces) Screening
Lua Shanks
Dr. Young
SOCW 6200
3/11/2023
Based on the Pediatric ACEs and Related Life Events Screener, Juan Jr. has experienced two adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and three related life events. The two ACEs he has experienced are living with a caregiver who had mental health issues, and living with a caregiver who has a problem with alcohol or substance use. The three life events he has experienced are lacking appropriate care, seeing or hearing a caregiver being verbally or physically abused, and experiencing discrimination. Comment by Young, Shakebra: Introduction heading
Given these results, I would create a plan for working with this family that focuses on providing support and resources to Juan Jr. and his family. I would begin by helping the family identify and understand the effects of Juan Jr.’s ACEs and life events on his mental, emotional, and physical health. This would involve helping them to recognize the signs and symptoms of toxic stress, as well as helping them to develop coping strategies to manage it (Garner & Yogman, 2021). I would also help the family access resources such as therapy and support groups, as well as provide referrals to other organizations that can offer additional assistance. Comment by Young, Shakebra: Use headings to separate your paragraph sections Comment by Young, Shakebra: Avoid using first person Comment by Young, Shakebra: Per the grading rubric, you were required to include at least two references in this section.
Response meets expectations and expands with well-developed connections between the plan and the identified ACEs. … Two or more scholarly resources are used to support the plan.
To ensure that Juan Jr. receives the best possible care and support, I would also administer the ACEs assessment in a developmentally appropriate manner. This would involve using activities and games to help him understand his experiences and express his feelings (Iacovides & Mekler, 2019). I would also ensure that he understands that he is not to blame for any of the ACEs and life events he has experienced, and that he can always reach out to a trusted adult for help. I would also ensure that I assess the child in their natural environment and use the child’s primary language, so that the child can answer the questions accurately and in a way that is comfortable for them. Additionally, it is also important to ensure a trauma-informed approach when conducting the assessment, so that the child can feel safe and comfortable (Zastrow et al., 2019). Finally, I would assess the child’s environment and the family’s resources, so that I can provide the most effective interventions and resources for the child and family. Comment by Young, Shakebra: Heading
In conclusion, understanding Juan Jr.’s ACEs and life events is essential for providing him with the best possible care and support. By helping him and his family to recognize and address the effects of his experiences, we can help him to cope and thrive in the face of adversity. Comment by Young, Shakebra: This should be a separate heading and centered Comment by Young, Shakebra: More critical thought within your conclusion
References
Garner, A., & Yogman, M. (2021). Preventing Childhood Toxic Stress: Partnering With Families and Communities to Promote Relational Health.
Pediatrics,
148(2), e2021052582. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2021-052582
Iacovides, I., & Mekler, E. D. (2019). The Role of Gaming During Difficult Life Experiences.
Proceedings of the 2019 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems.
https://doi.org/10.1145/3290605.3300453
Zastrow, C. H., Kirst-Ashman, K. K., & Hessenauer, S. L. (2019). Understanding human behavior and the social environment (11th ed.). Cengage Learning