Date

11-11-2026

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Education in Community Care and Counseling (EdD)

Chair

Courtney Evans

Keywords

Adverse Childhood Experiences, Foster Care, Classroom Behaviors, Academic Performance, Traumatic Experiences, Trauma, Residential Setting, Behavioral Health, Abuse, Neglect

Disciplines

Education | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, and dysfunctions of the household, are linked to trauma and long-term health consequences. The descriptive study aims to contribute to the current body of literature by investigating the frequency and types of ACEs encountered by foster youth, their academic performance, and classroom behavior while in a residential setting. The ACEs experienced by the foster care youth before residential placement will also be examined. The mean, median, and mode of ACE scores are calculated to gain insights into the central tendency of traumatic childhood events. The research employs statistical methods, such as analysis of variance (ANOVA), Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and t-test, to explore potential differences in behavioral outcomes and academic achievements aligned with the number of ACEs encountered based on the participants' sociodemographic characteristics. A descriptive statistical approach is critical for comprehensively profiling participants based on their sociodemographic characteristics, laying the foundation for subsequent inferential analyses. Academic databases, student records, and AACU Value rubrics will collect data on academic performance. Behavior will be evaluated through disciplinary reports (MIDAS). The hope is that this study will provide valuable insights to inform advocacy efforts and pathways for effective interventions that could significantly improve the trajectory for these children

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