The Science of Adversity and Resilience: Research on Tap

Dr. Jennifer Hays-Grudo, Regents Professor in Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, will discuss her research in the April 2019 episode of Research on Tap. In 1998, researchers made a surprising discovery. Analyzing thousands of patient records, they discovered that exposure to multiple types of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), including abuse, neglect, and other stressful experiences, had devastating effects on adult health and well-being. Research during the past two decades confirms that ACEs increase the risk of chronic diseases (cancer, heart disease, stroke, autoimmune diseases), mental health problems, health-harming behaviors, and social problems affecting our communities (teen pregnancy, school drop-out, delinquency, violence and crime). Recent research in neuroscience, genetics, and human behavior explains how childhood adversity literally “gets under the skin,” changing cells, brains, and even DNA making individuals vulnerable to future stress and health risks. Equally important, however, is the growing knowledge that positive childhood experiences can mitigate the harmful effects of ACEs. We are learning how Protective and Compensatory Experiences (PACEs) can buffer the effects of ACEs, how relationships and resources allow children, adults, and communities to become resilient in the face of ACEs. Join us in taking a look at our own ACEs and PACEs, the history of ACEs in our state and communities, and how we can create societal and personal practices that promote resilience through nurturing relationships, strong and supportive cultural institutions, and enriching experiences for children and adults of all ages.