Exploring the Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Adolescent Health and Behavior: Implications for Adverse Childhood Experience-informed Policies and Practices
6
Issued Date
2025-01-01
Resource Type
eISSN
27724204
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-85219736168
Journal Title
Asian Journal of Social Health and Behavior
Volume
8
Issue
1
Start Page
21
End Page
28
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Asian Journal of Social Health and Behavior Vol.8 No.1 (2025) , 21-28
Suggested Citation
Thein S.S., Thepthien B.O. Exploring the Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Adolescent Health and Behavior: Implications for Adverse Childhood Experience-informed Policies and Practices. Asian Journal of Social Health and Behavior Vol.8 No.1 (2025) , 21-28. 28. doi:10.4103/shb.shb_409_23 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/106648
Title
Exploring the Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Adolescent Health and Behavior: Implications for Adverse Childhood Experience-informed Policies and Practices
Author(s)
Author's Affiliation
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Introduction: This study delves into the association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the development of health issues and behavior in adolescents. The objective is to refine our understanding of the trajectory of health problems associated with ACE exposure among this demographic. Methods: Data from the 2022 round of the Bangkok Behavior Surveillance Survey were scrutinized in this cross-sectional study. Participants, comprising 5740 students from 36 educational institutions in Bangkok, responded to an online questionnaire. The questionnaire, consisting of 15 items, explored various ACEs. Multiple regression analysis was employed to examine the relationship between ACE exposure levels and health indicators. Results: Findings revealed that 78.1% of participants reported at least one ACE, with a higher prevalence among females. ACE exposure (0 [ref], 1, 2, 3, 4, 5+) was associated with various health and behavioral indicators compared to no ACE, including substance use (conventional cigarettes odds ratio [OR] 1.94-4.51, e-cigarettes OR 2.16-2.80, alcohol OR 1.46-3.44, marijuana OR 2.18-3.09, Kratom OR 2.05-3.93, illicit drugs OR 2.61-3.01), engagement sexual activity OR 1.55-3.26, and mental health concerns (anxiety OR: 2.39-10.11, depression OR: 1.98-14.26, suicidal thoughts OR: 2.03-13.21, self-harm OR: 2.98-8.09, and stress OR: 1.65-6.88). Female students with ACE histories exhibited poorer mental health, whereas male students demonstrated a higher propensity for substance abuse. Conclusion: This study underscores a compelling correlation between ACE exposure levels and a spectrum of negative health effects and risky behaviors among adolescents. Those reporting five or more ACE exposures exhibited heightened vulnerability to adverse health conditions.