Relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences (Aces) and Aggression among the Youth: A Case of Kamiti Youth Correctional and Training Centre, Kiambu County, Kenya

Abstract

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are linked to behavioral risks, yet little evidence exists from Kenyan custodial youth. This study examined the prevalence of ACEs, levels of aggression, the ACE–aggression association, and coping mechanisms at Kamiti Youth Correctional and Training Centre (YCTC). A convergent mixed-methods design surveyed 90 male residents and conducted semi-structured interviews with youths and staff. Quantitative analyses reported descriptives and relationships; qualitative data were thematically analyzed using General Strain, Attachment, and Social Learning theories. Cumulative ACEs ranged 0–14 (mean 4.57); 72% reported ≥3 ACEs. Common adversities were witnessing neighborhood violence (53.3%), bullying (41.1%), and parental separation (38.9%). Aggression was moderate–high (mean 89.09); the ACE–aggression relationship was weak and non-significant (r = −0.174, p = 0.103). Coping relied on withdrawal (41.1%) and activity-based distraction (20%); help-seeking was rare (6.7%). Interviewees described somatic warning signs, provocation checkpoints around respect, and brief resets (sleep, sport) interrupting escalation. The study finds that high ACE prevalence and elevated aggression are linked in a complex, non-linear way shaped by context. Evidence shows court delays and home stress act as triggers. The pattern suggests that strain sets baseline risk, attachment sets regulation thresholds, and learned scripts steer how youths respond. The study concludes that the same ACE load can lead to different behaviours depending on ecological pressures. It also emphasizes practical fixes such as centre-wide de-escalation training, prosocial activities such as sports during high-stress periods, brief counselling with selective disclosure, consistent court-day communication, and light monitoring to track progress. The limitations include narrow generalization, including a cross-sectional design, a male-only sample, and self-report bias. Therefore, the study places ACE measurement inside its real setting and ties mechanisms to concrete support in Kenyan juvenile justice. The recommendations aim to match daily pressures with simple, repeatable actions.