Addressing adverse childhood experiences in diverse racial and ethnic settings: a review.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article reviews the current literature on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) with particular focus on racial and ethnic factors.

RECENT FINDINGS: Limited research exists with respect to ACEs and certain racial and ethnic groups. In this article, we highlight the unique challenges specific populations may face in their lives. Further research on ACEs in these and other racial and ethnic groups is needed to help clinicians contextualize their cases in the clinical setting.

SUMMARY: As the US population continues to diversify, it is pivotal that clinicians and researchers understand some of the challenges faced by different racial and ethnic populations and demonstrate more sensitivity to patient needs. Clinicians who are sensitive to an individual's history of ACEs would be expected to have a better understanding of his/her patient's predilection to specific mental health issues.