Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses the adverse childhood experiences, or ACEs, and Felitti et al.'s groundbreaking research into the impact of ACEs over the lifespan. It expands the conversation about traumatic events to include natural disasters, community violence, war, and other significant events. The book discusses the human stress response and how traumatic events can push that response from healthy to unhealthy to toxic. It examines the neurobiology and trauma, looking for specific ways trauma impacts neurological functioning. The book reviews the research regarding the effect of trauma and toxic stress on emotions and behavior. It also discusses the importance of healthy relationships in repairing and healing the minds and bodies of children. The book provides strategies to help children and families move past traumatic events.