Date of Award
1-15-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
MA - Master of Arts
Department
Mindfulness Studies
First Advisor
Melissa Jean
Second Advisor
Andrew Olendzki
Abstract
This study presents research about the nature and prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), the mental and physical impacts to individuals exposed to ACEs, and incorporating mindfulness practices into therapeutic approaches to treating them, particularly Mindfulness-Based Narrative Therapy (MBNT). It is important because ACEs have become a global crisis, with the potential for interfering with psychological and physical development, early mortality, and other harmful life outcomes. This thesis provides critical information for mindfulness teachers and practitioners, therapists, educators, regulators, parents, and individuals subjected to ACEs.
The methodology includes extensive literature searches for narrative therapy and mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in peer-reviewed journal articles, as well as references found in those peer-reviewed journal articles. The findings show that MBNT can be a helpful intervention for individuals exposed to ACEs that generates more positive life outcomes. However, participation in MBIs may, for some individuals, result in adverse effects, thus requiring trauma-sensitive, phase-based approaches incorporated into MBNT.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Kemp, Julie, "Adverse Childhood Experiences: Healing Through Storytelling and Mindful Narrative Therapy" (2025). Mindfulness Studies Theses. 101.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/mindfulness_theses/101
Included in
Behavior and Behavior Mechanisms Commons, Child Psychology Commons, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Commons, Cognitive Psychology Commons, Counseling Commons, Counseling Psychology Commons, Developmental Psychology Commons, Mental Disorders Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing Commons, Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy Commons, Substance Abuse and Addiction Commons, Women's Health Commons
