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The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) on Officers Starting Careers in Corrections

Wed, Nov 13, 12:30 to 1:50pm, Pacific B - 4th Level

Abstract

Objective: Corrections is a chronically stressful and traumatic job, leading to high rates of mental health symptomology, suicide, and physical ailments. We frequently tie these negative outcomes to different job stressors, but we have not explored the influence of adversity preceding an officer's career. Childhood adversity profoundly shapes development and can result in comparable negative life outcomes observed in corrections. The current paper examines how adverse childhood experiences can impact an officer before they start their career. Data/Methods: We conducted in-person interviews with 245 correction officers in a northeastern state 6-months after they began their career. During the interview, the officers' physical, mental, and behavioral health were evaluated using a range of scales. Additionally, officers completed the adverse childhood experiences survey. Results: Our findings identify key relationships among physical, behavioral, and mental well-being, and adverse childhood experiences. Conclusions/Implications: We discuss the implications of our results in relation to officer health and being.

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