How Can Understanding Human Development Help Improve Program Effectiveness?

Childhood experiences can influence health and well-being throughout one’s life. An increasing amount of research on trauma and toxic stress highlights the importance of reducing stressors on ACF-served children and families, as well as the need to help these families cope. Examining this research through the lens of resilience, practitioners are able to further understand why some individuals and families can thrive in the face of adversity. Additionally, programs can identify promising practices and strategies to promote protective factors.