Documentary, discussion to focus on protecting children from toxic stress
The issue of the lingering effects of abuse and neglect during childhood will be examined during a documentary screening and discussion on the State University of New York at Fredonia and Jamestown Community College campuses.
“Resilience: The Biology of Stress and the Science of Hope” will be viewed in McEwen Hall Room 209 at Fredonia on Tuesday, April 9 at 6:30 p.m. It will also be shown at Scharmann Theatre, 525 Falconer Street, Jamestown on Wednesday, April 10 at 6:30 p.m.
According to the synopsis from KPJR Films, “researchers have recently discovered a dangerous biological syndrome caused by abuse and neglect during childhood. The documentary reveals toxic stress can trigger hormones that wreak havoc on the brains and bodies of children, putting them at a greater risk for disease, homelessness, prison time, and early death.”
The synopsis goes on to say that the documentary “also chronicles the dawn of a movement that is determined to fight back.Trailblazers in pediatrics, education and social welfare are using cutting-edge science and field-tested therapies to protect children from the insidious effects of toxic stress—and the dark legacy of a childhood that no child would choose.”
The first hour of each event will be a screening of the film. During the second hour representatives from community agencies will discuss how to promote resilience in our families and community.
The screenings are sponsored by the Chautauqua County Health Network, Prevent Child Abuse New York, Jamestown Community College and the State University of New York at Fredonia.
