The Neuroscience of Adverse Childhood Experiences

Why do early life experiences, especially those that are difficult, shape who we become as adults? Adverse Childhood Experiences like neglect, abuse and/or chronic stress can alter the developing brains of children and adolescents.

In turn, this cumulative stress could play a role in shaping our emotions, learning, memory, and decision-making.In this talk, Dr Jeffrey DeMarco will draw on neuroscience to explore the influences of early environment on children’s long-term well-being, and how this impacts us into adulthood.

He will also explore the role of support and resilience in helping the brain heal and grow after trauma.

This session is perfect for any adult eager to explore and understand childhood experiences and how they can have a lasting impact on our lives.Dr Jeffrey DeMarco is a Senior Technical Advisor for Protecting Children from Digital Harm at Save the Children UK.

He is also a chartered forensic psychologist, and frequently lectures on trauma at Middlesex University.

His research and policy work bridge psychology with technology and child protection, where most recently, he led a nine-nation digital-resilience programme.

He has spoken before the European Commission, Europol, and UNICEF on online harms, radicalisation, and the experience of trauma.

His ideas have been featured in his TEDx RoyalHolloway talks “The Importance of Trust” and his podcast “Privacy Talks” (2025).