Adverse Childhood Experiences and Suicide in Adolescents

A literature and state of the science review that examines the study of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and their relationship to adolescent suicide. The definition of ACEs was created in 1998 through a groundbreaking study conducted by Dr. Felliti. Felitti's definition of ACEs has expanded to become a new field of study that has evolved and grown since its origins in 1998. Using the research behind ACEs and their effect on health outcomes, the relationship between ACEs and the increased risk of adolescent suicide is identified. Some of the populations who are at elevated risk of ACEs within the community are also identified to include children placed in foster care, immigrants and refugees, as well as adolescents who identify with the LGBTQ+ population. All of the studies reviewed in this paper are peer-reviewed and were collected from the CINHAL database. Based on the current research surrounding ACEs, a graded dose-response relationship has been identified between higher ACE scores and increased suicide risk within the adolescent age group. While the correlation between ACE score and suicide risk is clear, more research is needed to develop effective ACE screening protocols that aim to prevent teen suicide.