In 2018, the University of Michigan conducted research on the maltreatment of public school children in the state of Michigan. Their findings were that roughly 18% of third-graders in Michigan had been subject to at least one investigation of maltreatment through Child Protective Services (CPS). Every year, the Children's Bureau releases annual child maltreatment data. According to the 2018 report, the rate of children victimized by maltreatment in Indiana was 16.4 per 1000 children. In addition, child maltreatment in Indiana increased 10% from 2014 to 2018. According to the World Health Organization, child maltreatment is defined as "the abuse and neglect that occurs to children under 18 years of age", which includes physical and mental abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, etc. This type of maltreatment is an example of adverse childhood experiences and has a great impact not only on the academic success of children but also on the mental and emotional wellbeing of our youth.
Otherwise known as ACEs, adverse childhood experiences are traumatic events that occur between the ages of 0 and 17. Research between 1995 and 1997 called the Kaiser ACE study found that two-thirds of study participants reported at least one adverse childhood experience and over one-fifth of participants reported three or more ACEs. ACEs can have detrimental effects in many facets, including low academic performance, increased risks for self-harm, the development of mental disorders such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder, and many others. However, more longitudinal studies are necessary to better understand the long-term effects of ACEs. Furthermore, ACEs may lead to the development of what is known as "toxic stress". Toxic stress can be defined as "repeated exposure to stress without the benefit of buffering protection of a supportive, adult relationship." Stress that is not managed with help from a caring, loving adult can result in toxic stress. Exposure to prolonged toxic stress can disrupt brain development in children, which may lead to issues in learning, behavior, and physical and mental health. For more information about the effects of toxic stress, view the video below.
What can be done to mitigate the effects of toxic stress and adverse childhood experiences? Children and teens that have a safe, supporting relationship with trusted adults is a key factor in preventing the development of toxic stress. Reducing stressful situations at home play a pivotal role in prevention. Support comes by way of providing the basic needs of a child, supporting a child academically, spending more time as a family, providing guidance and advice for a child's struggles, or even a simple hug every day.
Logansport Jr. High has worked to create a positive atmosphere by offering bi-weekly challenges for students to complete that are fun, engaging, and service to others. This is known as the "Date to Be Kind" challenge. When students receive a card from a a student or staff member, they complete the challenge and then give the card to another student. Outside the lunch room are posters where students can sign their name for completing the challenge. Simple and fun activities such as these challenges can help students maintain a positive mindset and feel supported by others in their school environment.
Logansport Jr. High strives to develop positive relationships with parents and guardians of students, to work alongside families to provide for the needs of every child. For more support and information, here are local resources that provide counseling and services to support your family:
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