Fourth-year student doctor Ashley Maczka at Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine presented research on the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and mental health symptoms in medical students.
Maczka conducted the study through Burrell College’s Distinction in Research program. Using standardized depression and stress scales, she examined how ACE histories may influence psychological symptoms in the medical school environment.
“Most of the literature focuses on ACEs and physical health,” Ms. Maczka said. “Some research has been done to find connections between mental health and ACE history, but little to no research has been done within the medical student population.”
Maczka said her research highlights a need to understand how early-life experiences may contribute to mental health outcomes among future physicians.
“It is important to see how medical students score on these psychological ballots and whether ACE history plays a role with the scores seen,” Ms. Maczka said.
Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine supported Maczka’s work through both the Summer Research Program and the Distinction in Research program.
“Throughout my entire medical school career, I have always been able to be involved in research,” Ms. Maczka said. “There have been many opportunities to get involved, and I’ve been able to work on multiple projects while also having the opportunity to present my work at conferences.”
