Adverse Childhood Experiences among American Indian/Alaska Native Children: The 2011-2012 National Survey of Children’s Health

Abstract

We examined parent-reported adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and associated outcomes among American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) children aged 0–17 years from the 2011-2012 National Survey of Children's Health. Bivariate and multivariable analyses of cross-sectional data on 1,453 AI/AN children and 61,381 non-Hispanic White (NHW) children assessed race-based differences in ACEs prevalence and differences in provider-diagnosed chronic emotional and developmental conditions, health characteristics, reported child behaviors, and health services received as a function of having multiple ACEs. AI/AN children were more likely to have experienced 2+ ACEs (40.3% versus 21%), 3+ ACEs (26.8% versus 11.5%), 4+ ACEs (16.8% versus 6.2%), and 5+ ACEs (9.9% versus 3.3%) compared to NHW children. Prevalence rates for depression, anxiety, and ADHD were higher among AI/AN children with 3+ ACEs (14.4%, 7.7%, and 12.5%) compared to AI/ANs with fewer than 2 ACEs (0.4%, 1.8%, and 5.5%). School problems, grade failures, and need for medication and counseling were 2-3 times higher among AI/ANs with 3+ ACEs versus the same comparison group. Adjusted odds ratio for emotional, developmental, and behavioral difficulties among AI/AN children with 2+ ACEs was 10.3 (95% CI = 3.6–29.3). Race-based differences were largely accounted for by social and economic-related factors.

Statewide collaborative partnerships among American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities in California to target the opioid epidemic: Preliminary results of the Tribal Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) key informant needs assessment

“…Separate from the intergenerational effects of historical trauma, there is evidence that AI/AN peoples are also disproportionately affected by direct trauma exposure and adverse life events (Kenney & Singh, 2016). Consistent with this evidence, KIs described a common pattern among clients who have experienced trauma including child abuse, domestic violence, and family dysfunction.…”

Cardiovascular Disease in American Indian and Alaska Native Youth: Unique Risk Factors and Areas of Scholarly Need

“…There is a fair body of literature associating adverse childhood experiences with CVD in the general population, though our knowledge of adverse childhood experiences in indigenous populations is limited to their prevalence in AI/ANs . The prevalence of a significant adverse childhood experience score (3 or more) is more than double that of the general population, which highlights the need to explore the long‐term effects of this disparity . Furthermore, we identify exposure to environmental contaminants, diet, and physical activity as areas in particular need of future research.…”

“…103 The prevalence of a significant adverse childhood experience score (3 or more) is more than double that of the general population, which highlights the need to explore the long-term effects of this disparity. 104 Furthermore, we identify exposure to environmental contaminants, diet, and physical activity as areas in particular need of future research.…”

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