Citation

Champine RB, Lang JM, Mamidipaka A. Policy Insights Behav. Brain Sci. 2021; 8(2): 103-110.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, SAGE Publications)

DOI

10.1177/23727322211031583

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Both vulnerabilities to COVID-19 and childhood trauma have deep roots in health inequities. Children of color especially risk severe COVID-19 illness, with long-term effects that amplify existing health disparities, including trauma exposure. Similarly, children of color report more adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) than non-Hispanic White children. ACEs and other potentially traumatic events are associated with lifelong physical and psychological health problems. Policy must prioritize health equity (the absence of differences in health care access, quality, and outcomes based on ethnicity, race, and socioeconomic status). A trauma-informed approach emphasizes recovery and resilience. Principles of health equity can join with trauma-informed policy and practice for families and communities to help mitigate the effects of childhood trauma during the pandemic and beyond.

Language: en

Keywords

ACEs; COVID-19; health equity; public policy; trauma-informed approach