Adverse childhood experiences (ACES) in children with neurodevelopment disorders.

This article focuses on the prevalence and characteristics of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in children with neurodevelopmental disorders compared to peers without disabilities. Conducted at the Pediatric Unit of Campus Bio-Medico University Hospital in Rome, the study enrolled 54 children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders and 54 controls, using the ISPCAN Child Abuse Screening Tools for children (ICAST-C) and parents (ICAST-P). Results showed that children with neurodevelopmental disorders experienced ACEs, particularly psychological and physical abuse, at significantly higher rates than controls, while no significant difference was found for sexual abuse. The study highlights disability as a risk factor for childhood maltreatment and underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing ACEs in this vulnerable population to inform prevention and intervention strategies.