Date of Award

Spring 2024

Project Type

Thesis

Program or Major

Justice Studies

Degree Name

Master of Arts

First Advisor

John Trombley

Second Advisor

Robert Eckstein

Third Advisor

Donna Perkins

Abstract

The present study looked into how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) affect childhood development and lead to potential criminal behavior. It also looked into how this psychological theory can be used as a legal defense. By examining previous research on the topic and studying criminal cases in which ACEs were used as a mitigating factor in the criminal act, the study attempted to investigate the connection between this psychological theory and its being used as a mitigating factor in criminal defense. The research questions for this study are: (1) to what degree are ACEs successful, (2) what are the qualities of cases that successfully and unsuccessfully use ACEs, (3) what factors would be present in a case profile representing the successful use of ACEs, and (4) what is a characterization of the ideal ACE defendant? Results showed that specific variables increase the likelihood of ACEs being successfully used: expert testimony, criminal history, and certain ACE factors. However, the quality of these variables when presented and judging discretion are also important.

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