Title : Exploring the effects of adverse childhood experiences among university students
Abstract:
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) potentially traumatic events before age 18, such as abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction are well-documented contributors to long-term health, behavioral, and educational challenges.
Aim: This study investigated the associations between different forms of abuse and students’ health-risk behaviors, cognitive difficulties, and academic performance at Tbilisi State University (TSU), Georgia.
Methods: A quantitative survey was conducted in June 2021, using an electronic questionnaire distributed to all TSU students. The survey incorporated internationally validated ACEs questions alongside items assessing health behaviors, cognitive functioning, and learning outcomes.
Results: The study found substantial exposure to physical violence, more commonly reported by male students, while psychological violence affected a considerable portion of both genders, slightly higher in males. Sexual violence was reported predominantly by female students. Among health-risk behaviors, 17.2% of students smoked, 3.2% used drugs, and 10% reported suicidal thoughts or attempts. ACE exposure, particularly sexual abuse, was strongly correlated with higher rates of smoking, substance use, and suicidal tendencies. Nearly half of participants reported attention deficits, and many students with histories of violence experienced learning difficulties.
Conclusions: ACEs exert a profound influence on both cognitive functioning and academic performance. These findings highlight the urgent need for tailored interventions in university settings to support students who have experienced childhood trauma, reduce associated healthrisk behaviors, and foster educational success and long-term well-being.
