Parent and Child Factors Associated with Household versus Community Adversity among Black and Hispanic Children

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe exposure to within-household and community adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and to identify child- and parent-level factors associated with exposure to different kinds of ACEs. This cross-sectional study used a clinical sample of 257 Black and Hispanic children ages 3–16 years and their caregivers who were seeking care at two federally qualified health centers in Chicago, Illinois and screened positive for a behavioral health problem. The sample had high levels of within-household ACEs (76% reported at least one) and community ACEs (71% reported at least one). Black children experienced more overall and within-household ACEs than Hispanic children, including forced separation from a caregiver and family member incarceration. Hispanic children experienced more bullying and violent media exposure. Significant associations to all categories of ACEs were observed for depression, child behavioral problems, and older child age. Tailored assessment of ACEs and interventions such as trauma-informed care are needed in pediatric clinical settings, including assessment of ACEs children in experience in communities.