1
|
Ferrajão P, Frias F, Elklit A. Exploring Independent and Cumulative Effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences on PTSD and CPTSD a Study in Ugandan Adolescents. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:517. [PMID: 38790512 PMCID: PMC11119836 DOI: 10.3390/children11050517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) is related to higher morbidity and mortality among adolescents. The present study analyzed the independent and cumulative effects of ACE exposure on the likelihood of PTSD and a CPSTD diagnosis in Ugandan adolescents. A sample of 401 schoolchildren participated in the study. The primary aim was to collect information on ACEs, PTSD, CPTSD, and attachment styles among adolescents living in different countries. It was found that exposure to 2-3 ACEs and exposure to 4-5 ACEs were significantly associated with PTSD diagnosis, while exposure to sexual abuse, bullying, threats of violence, and near-drowning were significantly related to CPTSD diagnosis. Fearful attachment style was significantly associated with PTSD diagnosis. The results propose that biological, psychological, and social issues interact and contribute to the differential prevalence of ACE, attachment styles, and PTSD/CPTSD. This study underscores the importance of addressing childhood-averse and traumatic experiences as a public health priority in Uganda.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Ferrajão
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Europeia, Quinta do Bom Nome, Estrada da Correia 53, 1500-210 Lisbon, Portugal;
- CIDESD—Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Francisco Frias
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Europeia, Quinta do Bom Nome, Estrada da Correia 53, 1500-210 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Ask Elklit
- National Center for Psychotraumatology, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Martsenkovskyi D, Shevlin M, Ben-Ezra M, Bondjers K, Fox R, Karatzias T, Martsenkovska I, Martsenkovsky I, Pfeiffer E, Sachser C, Vallières F, Hyland P. Mental health in Ukraine in 2023. Eur Psychiatry 2024; 67:e27. [PMID: 38533632 PMCID: PMC10988158 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2024.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Very little is known about the mental health of the adult population of Ukraine following Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022. In this study, we estimated the prevalence of seven mental health disorders, the proportion of adults screening positive for any disorder, and the sociodemographic factors associated with meeting requirements for each and any disorder. METHODS A non-probability quota sample (N = 2,050) of adults living in Ukraine in September 2023 was collected online. Participants completed self-report questionnaires of the seven mental health disorders. Logistic regression was used to determine the predictors of the different disorders. RESULTS Prevalence estimates ranged from 1.5% (cannabis use disorder) to 15.2% (generalized anxiety disorder), and 36.3% screened positive for any of the seven disorders. Females were significantly more likely than males (39.0% vs. 33.8%) to screen positive for any disorder. Disruption to life due to Russia's 2014 invasion of Ukraine, greater financial worries, and having fewer positive childhood experiences were consistent risk factors for different mental health disorders and for any or multiple disorders. CONCLUSION Our findings show that approximately one in three adults living in Ukraine report problems consistent with meeting diagnostic requirements for a mental health disorder 18 months after Russia's full-scale invasion. Ukraine's mental healthcare system has been severely compromised by the loss of infrastructure and human capital due to the war. These findings may help to identify those most vulnerable so that limited resources can be used most effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dmytro Martsenkovskyi
- Department of Psychiatry and Narcology, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
- SI Institute of Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatric Examination and Drug Monitoring of Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Mark Shevlin
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Derry, Northern Ireland
| | | | - Kristina Bondjers
- Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Oslo, Norway
| | - Robert Fox
- School of Business, National College of Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Thanos Karatzias
- School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland
| | - Inna Martsenkovska
- SI Institute of Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatric Examination and Drug Monitoring of Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Igor Martsenkovsky
- SI Institute of Psychiatry, Forensic Psychiatric Examination and Drug Monitoring of Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Elisa Pfeiffer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Cedric Sachser
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Frédérique Vallières
- Trinity Centre for Global Health, University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Philip Hyland
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Kildare, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ashour R, Halstead EJ, Mangar S, Lin VKQ, Azhari A, Carollo A, Esposito G, Threadgold L, Dimitriou D. Childhood experiences and sleep problems: A cross-sectional study on the indirect relationship mediated by stress, resilience and anxiety. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299057. [PMID: 38507345 PMCID: PMC10954170 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood experiences either adverse (ACE) or benevolent (BCE) can indirectly impact sleep quality in adult life, which in turn are modulated by the interplay of a variety of factors such as depression, anxiety, resilience and mental health problems. METHODS A cross-sectional observational study was conducted across the UK and the Middle Eastern countries during the COVID-pandemic on 405 participants. An online survey used a combination of questionnaires to assess ACE and BCEs. The following tools were then used to assess the contribution of resilience, stress, depression and anxiety respectively: Brief Resilience Scale (BRS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2) and General Anxiety Disorder-2 (GAD-2) scale on childhood experiences. The extent of sleep disturbances experienced over a period of seven days was assessed using the PROMIS Sleep Disturbance Short-Form Tool. A serial-parallel mediation model was used to evaluate the impact of the mediators on childhood experiences and sleep quality. RESULTS Over 50% of the cohort were from Middle Eastern countries. Four or more BCEs were experienced by 94.3% of the cohort. In contrast, 67.9% of participants experienced at least one ACE before the age of 18 years, with moderate levels of stress, mild depression and anxiety were reported in 3.7%, 13% and 20% of participants respectively. Whilst 25.4% of participants reported having had four or more ACEs, with higher reports in the middle easter countries (32%). ACEs were found to correlate with sleep disturbance whilst BCEs showed an inverse correlation. The relationship between ACE and sleep disturbances was shown to be mediated by stress, and anxiety, but not by resilience or depression. Resilience and stress, and resilience and anxiety serially mediated the interaction between ACE and sleep disturbance. With regards to BCE, an inverse association with sleep disturbance was recorded with similar mediators of stress and anxiety observed. CONCLUSION This study confirms the negative effects of ACEs, and the positive effects of BCEs on sleep in adulthood which are both mediated predominantly by psychological resilience, anxiety and stress. Strategies aimed at improving psychological resilience as well as addressing stress and anxiety may help improve sleep quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rola Ashour
- Sleep Education and Research Laboratory, Psychology and Human Development, UCL-Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom
- Psychology and Human Development Department, UCL, IOE Faculty of Education and Society, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth J. Halstead
- Sleep Education and Research Laboratory, Psychology and Human Development, UCL-Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom
- Psychology and Human Development Department, UCL, IOE Faculty of Education and Society, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Mangar
- Sleep Education and Research Laboratory, Psychology and Human Development, UCL-Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom
- Psychology and Human Development Department, UCL, IOE Faculty of Education and Society, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vanessa Khoo Qi Lin
- Psychology Programme, School of Humanities and Behavioural Sciences, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Atiqah Azhari
- Psychology Programme, School of Humanities and Behavioural Sciences, Singapore University of Social Sciences, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Alessandro Carollo
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Gianluca Esposito
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Laura Threadgold
- Sleep Education and Research Laboratory, Psychology and Human Development, UCL-Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom
- Psychology and Human Development Department, UCL, IOE Faculty of Education and Society, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dagmara Dimitriou
- Sleep Education and Research Laboratory, Psychology and Human Development, UCL-Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom
- Psychology and Human Development Department, UCL, IOE Faculty of Education and Society, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ferrajão P, Tourais B, Elklit A. Attachment Anxiety and Dissociation Mediate Associations Between Polytrauma and Somatization in Kenyan Adolescents. J Trauma Dissociation 2024; 25:83-98. [PMID: 37401367 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2023.2231958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
The experience of several potentially traumatic events (PTE) is a risk factor for higher somatization symptoms severity among adolescents. Attachment orientations and dissociation may influence the link between exposure to PTE and somatization symptoms severity. We analyzed the associations between direct exposure to PTE and somatization symptoms in Kenyan adolescents and explored the mediating role of attachment orientations and dissociation symptoms in the associations between direct exposure to PTE with somatization symptoms severity. A sample of 475 Kenyan adolescents completed validated self-report questionnaires. Serial multiple mediation models were tested by conducting a structural equation modeling employing Preacher and Hayes' procedures (2008). Attachment anxiety and dissociation symptoms mediate the association between direct exposure to traumatic events and somatization symptoms. Higher exposure to traumatic events was significantly associated with higher attachment anxiety levels, which was associated with higher levels of dissociation symptoms, which was then associated with higher somatization symptoms severity. High levels of attachment anxiety and dissociation might aggravate somatization symptoms differently according to sex, which might be seen as a psychological distress mechanism subsequent to exposure to multiple PTE in African adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Ferrajão
- Faculdade de Ciências Sociais E Tecnologia, Universidade Europeia, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Tourais
- Faculdade de Ciências Sociais E Tecnologia, Universidade Europeia, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ask Elklit
- National Center for Psychotraumatology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Leiva-Bianchi M, Nvo-Fernandez M, Villacura-Herrera C, Miño-Reyes V, Parra Varela N. What are the predictive variables that increase the risk of developing a complex trauma? A meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2023; 343:153-165. [PMID: 37802323 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
In 2018, Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) was officially recognized as a distinct syndrome in the International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision (ICD-11). This recognition aimed to differentiate between neurotic disorders secondary to stressful situations and somatoform disorders, and disorders specifically associated with stress. The inclusion of CPTSD in the ICD-11 marked the culmination of two decades of research focused on understanding its symptoms, treatments, and risk factors. However, despite the progress made, a comprehensive meta-analysis to elucidate the specific risk factors and impact on the development of CPTSD is still lacking. The objective of this article is to conduct such a meta-analysis. A total of 24 studies were selected for analysis, and the findings revealed several key risk factors associated with the development of CPTSD. The main risk factor identified is having experienced sexual abuse in childhood (k = 12; OR = 2.880). In addition, childhood physical abuse (k = 11; OR = 2.841), experiencing emotional neglect during childhood (k = 5; OR = 2.510), physical abuse throughout life (k = 8; OR = 2.149) and being a woman (k = 13; OR = 1.726) were also significant risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Leiva-Bianchi
- Laboratory of Methodology, Behavioural Sciences and Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad de Talca, Chile
| | - Marcelo Nvo-Fernandez
- Laboratory of Methodology, Behavioural Sciences and Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad de Talca, Chile.
| | - César Villacura-Herrera
- Laboratory of Methodology, Behavioural Sciences and Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad de Talca, Chile; Centro de Investigación en Ciencias Cognitivas, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad de Talca, Chile
| | - Valentina Miño-Reyes
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias Cognitivas, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad de Talca, Chile
| | - Nicol Parra Varela
- Laboratory of Methodology, Behavioural Sciences and Neuroscience, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad de Talca, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Li Y, Liang Y. The effect of childhood trauma on complex posttraumatic stress disorder: the role of self-esteem. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2272478. [PMID: 37906088 PMCID: PMC10629420 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2272478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Due to the short time that complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) has been an independent diagnosis, few studies have explored the role that self-esteem might play in the relationship between childhood trauma and CPTSD.Objective: The current study aimed to explore the impact of childhood trauma on CPTSD and the role of self-esteem in this relationship.Methods: Study 1 involved a questionnaire survey in which a total of 360 young Chinese adults with childhood trauma participated. Study 2 used experimental research by manipulating short-term self-esteem to explore the effect of self-esteem on CPTSD. A total of 80 young Chinese adults with childhood trauma participated.Results: The results of Study 1 showed that childhood trauma positively predicts adulthood CPTSD, while self-esteem partially mediates the relationship between the two. It also found that self-esteem has a greater mediating effect on the disordered self-organization (DSO) dimension of CPTSD than on the PTSD dimension. In Study 2, participants in the high manipulated-self-esteem group reported fewer CPTSD symptoms than those in the low manipulated-self-esteem group.Conclusion: Overall, this study emphasized the role of self-esteem in CPTSD among individuals with a childhood trauma history. In practice, we provided a potential optimization direction for CPTSD clinical treatment, suggesting a method of self-esteem reconstruction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yichu Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, Affiliated Mental Health Center (ECNU), School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yiming Liang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, Affiliated Mental Health Center (ECNU), School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Han D, Dieujuste N, Doom JR, Narayan AJ. A systematic review of positive childhood experiences and adult outcomes: Promotive and protective processes for resilience in the context of childhood adversity. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 144:106346. [PMID: 37473619 PMCID: PMC10528145 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research on positive childhood experiences (PCEs) as counterparts to childhood adversity has surged in the last five years. A systematic review of the additive and interactive effects of childhood adversity and PCEs across adult outcomes is needed that contextualizes the long-term correlates of childhood experiences within a developmental perspective. OBJECTIVE The current review synthesizes the empirical evidence for PCEs as resilience factors for a range of adult outcomes. METHODS Articles published until May 2023 were systematically identified according to PRISMA Guidelines through PubMed and PsycINFO databases and references of included articles. Then, 131 records were screened, and 58 studies were included. RESULTS Higher levels of PCEs were significantly but modestly associated with lower levels of childhood adversity. Higher levels of PCEs were associated with outcomes reflecting mental health, psychosocial functioning, physical health and health behaviors, and psychosocial stress. Most studies found direct, promotive effects of PCEs for more favorable outcomes. Few studies found significant interaction effects between childhood adversity and PCEs on outcomes, suggesting that PCEs may more frequently directly promote positive outcomes rather than moderate the effects of adversity on outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Individuals' childhood adversity and PCEs are somewhat independent sets of experiences; many individuals experience both, and the presence of one does not preclude the other. PCEs predict more favorable outcomes independent of childhood adversity more often than they interact with and moderate the effects of adversity on outcomes. Although the literature base is steadily growing, more research on PCEs in diverse and international samples is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Han
- University of Denver, 2155 S. Race St., Denver, CO, United States, 80210.
| | - Nathalie Dieujuste
- University of Denver, 2155 S. Race St., Denver, CO, United States, 80210.
| | - Jenalee R Doom
- University of Denver, 2155 S. Race St., Denver, CO, United States, 80210.
| | - Angela J Narayan
- University of Denver, 2155 S. Race St., Denver, CO, United States, 80210.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Somefun OD, Theron L, Höltge J, Ungar M. Resilience to depression: the role of benevolent childhood experiences in a South African sample. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1209504. [PMID: 37546432 PMCID: PMC10401265 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1209504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Studies elsewhere show that benevolent childhood experiences (BCEs) have protective mental health value. However, this protective value has never been investigated in an African context. Given the need to better understand what might support mental health resilience among African young people, this study explores the relationship between BCEs and depressive symptoms among a South African sample of young adults living in a community dependent on the economically volatile oil and gas industry. Methods A sample of young adults in an oil and gas community in South Africa (N = 313, mean age 20.3 years, SD = 1.83, range from 18 to 26; majority Black African) completed self-report questionnaires to assess BCEs and depressive symptoms (Beck Depression Inventory-II). The analysis controlled for socio-demographics and experience of family adversity. Multinomial logistic regressions were used to examine the association of BCEs with depressive symptoms using STATA 17. Results The majority (86.4% of the sample) reported all 10 BCEs. Of the 10 BCEs, having at least one good friend was the most reported (94%) compared to 75% of the sample reporting having a predictable home routine, such as regular meals and a regular bedtime. The unadjusted multinomial logistic regression analysis indicated that having at least one good friend, comforting beliefs, and being comfortable with self were associated with lower odds of moderate depression. The adjusted results showed no association between BCEs and the depression of young adults in this sample. Conclusion In this South African sample, our results do not show protective associations between BCEs and depression. This could be as a result of the homogeneity in our sample. It is also possible that the BCEs explored could not counteract the effect of chronic risk factors in the lives of the young people in this study context. Further research is needed to understand this complexity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Linda Theron
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jan Höltge
- Department of Psychology, University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, United States
| | - Michael Ungar
- Faculty of Health, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Redican E, Rawers C, McElroy E, Hyland P, Karatzias T, Ben-Ezra M, Shevlin M. Development and initial validation of a short form of the Memories of Home and Family Scale. ADVERSITY AND RESILIENCE SCIENCE 2023; 4:1-10. [PMID: 37361561 PMCID: PMC10148702 DOI: 10.1007/s42844-023-00097-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
The Memories of Home and Family Scale (MHFS; Shevlin et al., 2022) was developed as a multidimensional measure of subjective memories of experiences at home and with family during childhood. Due to the length of the scale, a short version of the MHFS (MHFS-SF) has been developed. Data were from Wave 7 of the COVID-19 Psychological Research Consortium Study (C19PRC-UK), a population based UK survey (N = 1405). Two items with the highest factor loadings from each of the six dimensions of the original MHFS were selected for inclusion. Confirmatory factor analytic (CFA) models were estimated to test the dimensionality of the scale. Convergent and discriminant validity were tested by examining associations with criterion variables. CFA results supported the multidimensionality of the scale. MHFS-SF total and sub-scale scores were negatively correlated with measures of depression, anxiety, loneliness, and paranoia, and were positively correlated with wellbeing. Regression analyses revealed that MHFS-SF total and sub-scale scores significantly predicted loneliness, paranoia, and wellbeing, even after accounting for age, gender, and current internalising symptoms. Results from this study suggest that the MHFS-SF scores retain the excellent psychometric properties of the original scale while improving efficiency. The MHFS-SF demonstrated high levels of convergent and discriminant validity with mental health and wellbeing measures. Future research should seek to validate the MHFS-SF in different populations and assess its usefulness in clinical settings. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s42844-023-00097-x.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enya Redican
- Ulster University, School of Psychology, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co, Londonderry, BT52 1SA UK
| | - Caitlyn Rawers
- Ulster University, School of Psychology, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co, Londonderry, BT52 1SA UK
| | - Eoin McElroy
- Ulster University, School of Psychology, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co, Londonderry, BT52 1SA UK
| | - Philip Hyland
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Kildare, Ireland
| | - Thanos Karatzias
- Edinburgh Napier University, School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Mark Shevlin
- Ulster University, School of Psychology, Cromore Road, Coleraine, Co, Londonderry, BT52 1SA UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Redican E, McBride O, Bunting L, Murphy J, Shevlin M. Prevalence and predictors of benevolent childhood experiences among a representative sample of young people. Br J Psychol 2023; 114:229-243. [PMID: 36351744 PMCID: PMC10100509 DOI: 10.1111/bjop.12607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Emerging research evidence suggests that benevolent childhood experiences (BCEs) may partly explain more favourable mental health outcomes among individuals affected by adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). However, much of this research has focused on adult populations. Consequently, this study sought to provide the first rigorous assessment of the prevalence and predictors of BCEs using a nationally representative sample of young people from Northern Ireland (NI). Participants were 11-19-years-olds (N = 1293) who participated in the NI Youth Wellbeing Prevalence Survey (NI-YWS, 2020). Prevalence rates, gender differences and predictors of BCEs were investigated. Results revealed how most of the sample experienced multiple BCEs (95%, n = 1084), with females reporting higher levels of BCEs. Significant positive predictors of BCEs were female gender, parental education, living with both biological parents, and living in areas with lower deprivation, while significant negative predictors of BCEs included family being in receipt of social welfare and older age. Overall, this study highlights how BCEs are common, while the identification of factors associated with likelihood of having positive experiences during early development provides novel insights into those young people who may be at greater risk for maladaptive psychological outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Orla McBride
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | | | - Jamie Murphy
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Mark Shevlin
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Almeida TC, Fernandes RM, Cunha O. The role of positive childhood experiences in the link between childhood maltreatment and affective lability in a sample of incarcerated men and women. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2023; 135:105969. [PMID: 36436298 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2022.105969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with a history of child maltreatment (CM) tend to show high affective lability (AL) and criminal behavior. However, positive childhood experiences (PCEs) may act as a protective factor even in the presence of child maltreatment. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to analyze the relationship between CM, PCEs, and AL in adulthood, identify the predictors of AL and analyze the moderating role of PCEs in the relationship between CM and AL in a sample of 424 incarcerated men (n = 343) and women (n = 81), aged between 18 and 73 years (M = 37.88). METHODS Participants responded to an online protocol consisting of a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), the Benevolent Childhood Experiences Scale (BCEs), and the Affective Lability Scale - Short Version (ALS-18). RESULTS CM was positively associated with AL and negatively associated with PCEs, and PCEs are negatively associated with AL. Regression analyses, after controlling for age, sex, and education, confirmed the role of PCEs on AL, above and beyond CM. However, moderation analysis showed that PCEs did not moderate the relationship between CM and AL for either men or women. CONCLUSIONS These results highlight the complexity of human development and behavior from early childhood into adulthood. Further studies are needed to better understand the role of PCEs in the relationship between ACEs and AL among inmates in order to develop more appropriate prevention and intervention programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Telma Catarina Almeida
- Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz (IUEM), Caparica, Portugal; CiiEM - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz, IUEM, Portugal; LabPSI - Laboratório de Psicologia Egas Moniz, IUEM, Portugal.
| | - Raquel Margarida Fernandes
- Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz (IUEM), Caparica, Portugal; LabPSI - Laboratório de Psicologia Egas Moniz, IUEM, Portugal
| | - Olga Cunha
- Universidade Lusófona do Porto, Portugal; Hei-Lab, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Johnson D, Browne DT, Meade RD, Prime H, Wade M. Latent Classes of Adverse and Benevolent Childhood Experiences in a Multinational Sample of Parents and Their Relation to Parent, Child, and Family Functioning during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13581. [PMID: 36294161 PMCID: PMC9603677 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are known to contribute to later mental health. Conversely, Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCEs) may buffer against mental health difficulties. The importance of ACEs and BCEs for mental health of both parents and children may be most obvious during periods of stress, with potential consequences for functioning of the family. Subgroups of ACEs and BCEs in parents during the COVID-19 pandemic were investigated and validated in relation to indices of parent, child, and family well-being. In May 2020, ACEs/BCEs were assessed in 547 parents of 5-18-year-old children from the U.K., U.S., Canada, and Australia. Subgroups of parents with varying levels of ACEs and BCEs were identified via latent class analysis. The subgroups were validated by examining associations between class membership and indices of parent and child mental health and family well-being. Four latent classes were identified: low-ACEs/high-BCEs, moderate-ACEs/high-BCEs, moderate-ACEs/low-BCEs, and high-ACEs/moderate-BCEs. Regardless of the extent of BCEs, there was an increased risk of parent and child mental health difficulties and family dysfunction among those reporting moderate-to-high levels of ACEs. Parents' history of adversity may influence the mental health of their family. These findings highlight the importance of public health interventions for preventing early-life adversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Johnson
- Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1V6, Canada
| | - Dillon T. Browne
- Centre for Mental Health Research and Treatment, Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Robert D. Meade
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, School of Human Kinetics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Heather Prime
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Mark Wade
- Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1V6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kampling H, Kruse J, Lampe A, Nolte T, Hettich N, Brähler E, Sachser C, Fegert JM, Gingelmaier S, Fonagy P, Krakau L, Zara S, Riedl D. Epistemic trust and personality functioning mediate the association between adverse childhood experiences and posttraumatic stress disorder and complex posttraumatic stress disorder in adulthood. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:919191. [PMID: 36032256 PMCID: PMC9399466 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.919191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with posttraumatic and complex posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in adulthood (PTSD/cPTSD), as well as reduced epistemic trust (trust in the authenticity and personal relevance of interpersonally transmitted information) and impaired personality functioning. The present work aims to investigate the predictive value of epistemic trust-the capacity for social learning-on the mediating effect of personality functioning in the association of ACEs and PTSD/cPTSD. Methods We conducted structural equation modeling (SEM) based on representative data of the German population (N = 2,004). Personality functioning (OPD-SQS) was applied as a mediator between ACEs and PTSD/cPTSD (ITQ), while epistemic trust (ETMCQ) was added as predictor for OPD-SQS. TLI, CFI, and RMSEA (95%-CI) determined the models' fit. Results N = 477 (23.8%) participants reported at least one ACE and n = 218 (10.9%) reported ≥4 ACEs. Fit indices were good for both PTSD (TLI = 0.96; CFI = 0.99; RMSEA = 0.06; 95%CI: 0.041-0.078) and cPTSD (TLI = 0.96; CFI = 0.99; RMSEA = 0.06; 95%CI: 0.043-0.081). ACEs were significantly associated with cPTSD (β = 0.44, p < 0.001) and PTSD (β = 0.29, p < 0.001), explaining 20 and 8% of its variance. Adding personality functioning as a mediator increased the explained variance of cPTSD and PTSD to 47 and 19% while the direct association between ACEs and cPTSD/PTSD decreased (β = 0.21/β = 0.17), thus, indicating a partial mediation. Including epistemic trust substantially increased the explained variance for personality functioning (41%) compared to ACEs as a single predictor (16%). Conclusion We add to previous research emphasizing the association between ACEs and PTSD/cPTSD symptoms. Offering insights on underlying mechanisms, we show that epistemic trust and personality functioning are relevant mediators. Since both are modifiable by psychotherapy, knowledge about the role of these constructs can inform research on psychotherapeutic interventions and prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Kampling
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Johannes Kruse
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical Center of the Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Astrid Lampe
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rehabilitation Research, Vienna, Austria
- VAMED Rehabilitation Center, Schruns, Austria
| | - Tobias Nolte
- Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, London, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nora Hettich
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Elmar Brähler
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Behavioral Medicine Research Unit, Integrated Research and Treatment Center for Adiposity Diseases, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Cedric Sachser
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jörg M. Fegert
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Stephan Gingelmaier
- Psychology and Diagnostics for Emotional and Social Development for the Emotionally Impaired, University of Education Ludwigsburg, Ludwigsburg, Germany
| | - Peter Fonagy
- Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lina Krakau
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Sandra Zara
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - David Riedl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rehabilitation Research, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Farrell D, Fadeeva A, Zat Z, Knibbs L, Miller P, Barron I, Matthess H, Matthess C, Gazit N, Kiernan MD. A Stage 1 Pilot Cohort Exploring the Use of EMDR Therapy as a Videoconference Psychotherapy During COVID-19 With Frontline Mental Health Workers: A Proof of Concept Study Utilising a Virtual Blind 2 Therapist Protocol. Front Psychol 2022; 13:901855. [PMID: 35874361 PMCID: PMC9298740 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.901855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the delivery of psychological treatment. Due to social distancing requirements, the provision moved to videoconferencing psychotherapy (VCP). There is a paucity of empirical data supporting the efficacy of EMDR therapy as a VCP. This stage 1 pilot study tested an EMDR therapy scripted protocol, such as Virtual Blind 2 Therapist (VB2Tr), on frontline mental health workers as a VCP regarding fitness for purpose, distinctiveness, relevance, and efficiency. Methods A total of 24 participants were recruited for the study. The design included a one-session treatment intervention with pre, post, 1-month, and 6-month follow-up (FU) measurements. This treatment session used a “Blind 2 Therapist” EMDR therapy scripted protocol as videoconference psychotherapy that involves non-disclosure of traumatic memory. The research explored the treatment effect on the core characteristics of trauma memory, including subjective disturbance, belief systems, memory intensity (MI), vividness, and levels of emotionality. Additionally, the research explored participants’ experiences of adverse and benevolent childhood experiences (ACEs/BCEs) during their childhood. Results Regarding the four tests, namely, fitness for purpose, distinctiveness, relevance, and efficiency, results are favourably suggesting potential clinical benefits of using EMDR as videoconference psychotherapy. Although this is a proof-of-concept study showing positive results, no clinical population or control group was used. The purpose of the study is to explore the potential for scalability toward a larger clinical trial. The treatment intervention was achieved irrespective of either ACEs/BCEs during childhood. Conclusion The research tentatively supports the case for EMDR therapy as a credible treatment when used as video conference psychotherapy and in using the Blind 2 Therapist protocol. However, more research is needed to scale toward a clinical trial. Clinical Trial Registration Clinical Trial Registration:https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN12099530, identifier ISRCTN12099530.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Derek Farrell
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Anastasia Fadeeva
- Northern Hub for Veteran and Military Families' Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Zeynep Zat
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Lorraine Knibbs
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Miller
- Mirabilis Health Institute, Newtownabbey, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Barron
- Centre for International Education, College of Education, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Helga Matthess
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Cordula Matthess
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Matthew D Kiernan
- Northern Hub for Veteran and Military Families' Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Shevlin M, Redican E, McElroy E, Ben-Ezra M, Karatzias T, Hyland P. Measuring positive memories of home and family during childhood: The development and initial validation of the 'Memories of Home and Family Scale'. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-10. [PMID: 35756900 PMCID: PMC9205651 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03220-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
There is a burgeoning evidence base highlighting the positive influence of benevolent childhood experiences (BCEs), even in the context of adversity. However, few measures are available to assess BCEs. The current study sought to develop and validate a measure which assesses positive recollections of experiences and emotions at home and with family during childhood called the 'Memories of Home and Family Scale'(MHFS). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was employed to test the latent structure of the preliminary MHFS item scores in a sample of university students from the United Kingdom (N = 624). Following selection of the best-fitting model and final items for inclusion in the scale, total and subscale scores were correlated with a range of mental health outcomes. CFA results indicated that the latent structure of the MHFS items was best represented by a correlated six-factor first-order model. The final MHFS demonstrated high levels of internal reliability and convergent validity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Shevlin
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Enya Redican
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Eoin McElroy
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | | | - Thanos Karatzias
- School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Philip Hyland
- Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hou H, Zhang C, Tang J, Wang J, Xu J, Zhou Q, Yan W, Gao X, Wang W. Childhood Experiences and Psychological Distress: Can Benevolent Childhood Experiences Counteract the Negative Effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences? Front Psychol 2022; 13:800871. [PMID: 35282200 PMCID: PMC8914177 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.800871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Childhood experiences can exert a huge impact on adult psychological conditions. Previous studies have confirmed the effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and benevolent childhood experiences (BCEs) on psychological distress (e.g., stress, depression, and suicidal ideation) separately, but few studies explored a combined effect of ACEs and BCEs on psychological distress. The aim of this study was to explore a combined effect of ACEs and BCEs on psychological distress among Chinese undergraduates. Methods Participants were undergraduates aged 17–24 years (N = 1,816) and completed a self-reported questionnaire. A series of regression analyses were conducted to examine the association between childhood experiences and psychological distress. Results A total of 65.7% of undergraduates had BCEs, 27.1% of undergraduates had ACEs, and 12.9% of undergraduates had ACEs and BCEs simultaneously. Logistic regression analysis indicated that undergraduates who experienced high ACEs were more likely to have a high risk of psychological distress [odds ratio (ORs) = 1.46, 1.84, and 3.15 for uncertainty stress, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation, respectively], while undergraduates who experienced High BCEs were less likely to have psychological distress (ORs = 0.33, 0.22, and 0.32 for uncertainty stress, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation, respectively) compared with Low-Both group. The combined effect of ACEs and BCEs (High-Both group) could also play as a protective factor in uncertainty stress (OR = 0.56) and depressive symptoms (OR = 0.47). Conclusion Our findings suggested that ACEs and BCEs could not only predict the psychological distress independently, but also BCEs could counteract the negative effect of ACEs in psychological problems. There is an even greater need to identify and support the victims of ACEs and to increase BCEs in early childhood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Hou
- Department of Community and Health Education, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Caochen Zhang
- Department of Community and Health Education, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jie Tang
- Department of Community and Health Education, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Department of Community and Health Education, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jiaqi Xu
- School of Medical Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Qin Zhou
- The Affiliated Xuzhou Oriental Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Wenjun Yan
- Department of Community and Health Education, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xiuyin Gao
- Department of Community and Health Education, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Community and Health Education, School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Center for Medical Statistics and Data Analysis, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Human Genetics and Environmental Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Wei Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Odintsova M, Lubovsky D, Gusarova E, Ivanova P. The Projective Technique «Space of Trees and Light» as a Navigator of Childhood Experience of Family Relationships in Adults. КОНСУЛЬТАТИВНАЯ ПСИХОЛОГИЯ И ПСИХОТЕРАПИЯ 2022. [DOI: 10.17759/cpp.2022300305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Aim. Empirical validation of the projective technique of K. Adams «Space of Trees and Light». Method. The study involved 298 people, including 245 women and 53 men aged 18 to 65 years (average age 33.89+12.7). There were used the following methods: Questionnaire «Family Emotional Communications» by A.B. Kholmogorova, S.V. Volikova, M.G. Sorokova; Questionnaire «Experience in Close Relationships» by K.A. Chistopolskaya and co-authors; projective technique «Space of Trees and Light» by K.Adams. Results and conclusions. The results given by the projective technique «Space of Trees and Light» are in correlations with the characteristics of family dysfunctions and displays of emotional attachment of adults in close relationships. Statistical analysis of the data showed that the groups of respondents who chose a picture symbolizing one or another version of the child’s spiritual world are characterized by specific profiles of family emotional communications and the experience in close relationships. Answers to additional questions to the technique help to clarify these features. The choice of a picture that symbolizes one or another social situation of development in the parental family acts as a kind of heuristic that allows one to build hypotheses about the features of family emotional communications and about the experience in building close relationships. The technique «Space of Trees and Light» can deepen empirical research and replenish the arsenal of techniques and methods in the practical activities of psychologists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - P.A. Ivanova
- Moscow State University of Psychology & Education graduate
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Almeida TC, Guarda R, Cunha O. Positive childhood experiences and adverse experiences: Psychometric properties of the Benevolent Childhood Experiences Scale (BCEs) among the Portuguese population. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2021; 120:105179. [PMID: 34198123 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2021.105179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Positive childhood experiences have a positive effect on adulthood, and the absence of positive experiences can be more damaging throughout life than the presence of adversity. Recently, researchers have developed the Benevolent Childhood Experiences Scale (BCEs), an instrument designed to assess positive childhood experiences. OBJECTIVES The present study aims to adapt the BCEs to the Portuguese population and examines its psychometric properties. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTINGS 1886 adults with a mean age of 36.36 years (SD = 13.66) from the community participated in this study. METHODS Participants responded to an online protocol consisting of a sociodemographic questionnaire, the BCEs, and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). RESULTS Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis revealed a one-factor structure for the BCEs with a good fit, CFI = 0.94; NFI = 0.92; RMSEA = 0.043 [0.036, 0.050]. Results also indicated satisfactory internal consistency and discriminant validity values. Predictive validity showed that higher BCEs scores predicted fewer adverse experiences in the last 3 years, but only before accounting for adverse childhood experiences. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the results support the assertion that the Portuguese version of the BCEs is a valuable, brief, and psychometrically reliable instrument to measure positive childhood experiences that is suitable for use in Portugal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Telma Catarina Almeida
- Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Caparica, Portugal; LabPSI - Laboratório de Psicologia Egas Moniz; CiiEM - Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar Egas Moniz, Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Caparica, Portugal.
| | - Renata Guarda
- Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz, Caparica, Portugal; LabPSI - Laboratório de Psicologia Egas Moniz
| | - Olga Cunha
- Universidade Lusófona, Portugal, Hei-Lab
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ghinea D, Fuchs A, Parzer P, Koenig J, Resch F, Kaess M. Psychosocial functioning in adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury: the roles of childhood maltreatment, borderline personality disorder and depression. Borderline Personal Disord Emot Dysregul 2021; 8:21. [PMID: 34193286 PMCID: PMC8246665 DOI: 10.1186/s40479-021-00161-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of studies examining psychosocial functioning in patients with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), especially in adolescents, and rates of impaired functioning in existing literature vary considerably. These variations may be attributable to further risk factors that influence psychosocial functioning. Thus, the aim of the study was to examine whether adolescent NSSI patients with childhood maltreatment (CM), a known risk factor for lower psychosocial functioning, may differ from adolescent NSSI patients without CM, and whether these differences may be explained by the severity of comorbid disorders. Specifically, we examined whether severity of borderline personality disorder (BPD), depression and posttraumatic stress disorder may explain differences in psychosocial functioning in NSSI patients with and without CM. METHODS Data of 368 adolescents with NSSI disorder from an outpatient clinic were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Clinicans' rating of the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF) was collected, in addition to clinical interviews. RESULTS Results indicate that GAF scores were lower among NSSI patients with CM and that the difference in psychosocial functioning between these groups was explained by BPD and depression severity. CONCLUSIONS Psychosocial functioning in NSSI patients varies depending on whether they have experienced CM or not. Specifically, these differences seem to be attributable to higher BPD and depression severity in adolescent NSSI patients with CM. Clinicians should ensure to assess CM and focus on BPD and depression severity in this population. Treatment of BPD and depression may notably reduce psychosocial impairment in NSSI patients with CM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Denisa Ghinea
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna Fuchs
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Parzer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Julian Koenig
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Franz Resch
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Kaess
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Na MC, Kim MD, Park JH, Jung YE, Moon DS, Yang HJ, Kim BN, Kang NR. Association between Maternal Adverse Childhood Experiences and Risk of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in the Offspring. Soa Chongsonyon Chongsin Uihak 2021; 32:63-70. [PMID: 33828405 PMCID: PMC8018678 DOI: 10.5765/jkacap.200045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) of mothers may negatively affect the mental health of their offspring. Little is known about the intergenerational effect of maternal ACE on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the offspring. This study inves-tigated the impact of maternal ACEs on PTSD in the offspring. Methods A total of 156 mothers with children aged 13–18 years completed the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children (DISC) Predictive Scales to determine the presence of psychiatric disorders in their offspring. The subjects completed the ACE questionnaire and the Early Trauma Inventory Self-Report-Short Form. Multivariable logistic regression was used to analyze the relationship between ma-ternal ACEs and PTSD in the offspring. Results Of the mothers, 23.7% had at least one ACE, and PTSD was reported in 21.8% of the offspring. The offspring of the mothers in the ACE group had a significantly higher rates of traumatic experiences and PTSD than the offspring of the mothers in the no ACE group. Maternal household dysfunction independently predicted offspring PTSD [odds ratio (OR)=3.008, p=0.05), and three or more maternal ACEs were significantly related to PTSD in the offspring (OR=10.613, p=0.025). Conclusion Maternal ACEs have a significant impact on the risk of traumatic experiences and PTSD in the offspring. These findings suggest the presence of intergenerational transmissions by which maternal ACEs affect the mental health of the offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Chull Na
- Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Korea
| | - Moon Doo Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Joon Hyuk Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Young-Eun Jung
- Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Duk-Soo Moon
- Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Korea
| | - Hyun-Ju Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Korea
| | - Bung-Nyun Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Na Ri Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Jeju National University School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kuhar M, Zager Kocjan G. Associations of adverse and positive childhood experiences with adult physical and mental health and risk behaviours in Slovenia. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2021; 12:1924953. [PMID: 34262663 PMCID: PMC8253200 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.1924953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Many studies demonstrated the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and diminished health functioning in adulthood. A growing literature has shown that positive childhood experiences (PCEs) co-occurring with ACEs reduce the risks for negative outcomes. Objective: The aim was to investigate how ACEs and PCEs are simultaneously associated with health outcomes in adulthood, including self-rated health, physical and mental health outcomes, and health-risk behaviours. Methods: A panel sample of 4,847 Slovenian adults was used and the data were weighted to closely resemble the Slovenian population. A series of logistic regression analyses were performed to examine how ACEs and PCEs predict the risk of various health outcomes. Results: Significant associations, as measured by adjusted odds ratios, were found between higher ACEs exposure and each of the 16 health outcomes evaluated. Adjusting for above median PCEs attenuated the association between ACEs and 6 health outcomes (poor self-rated physical and mental health, depression, anxiety, suicide attempt, physical inactivity; OR for ≥ 4 vs. 0 ACEs, 1.48-9.34). Mirroring these findings, above median PCEs were associated with lowered odds of these 6 health outcomes after adjusting for ACEs (OR for above vs. below median PCEs, 0.46-0.67), but not with odds of physical health outcomes and most of the health-risk behaviours. Stratified analyses by ACEs exposure level showed that the association between PCEs and self-rated health remained stable across ACEs exposure levels, while the association between PCEs and mental health outcomes and physical inactivity varied across ACEs exposure levels. Conclusions: Our results suggest that above median PCEs attenuate the association between ACEs and poor self-rated health, mental health problems, and physical inactivity in later life, and are negatively associated with these health problems even in the concurrent presence of ACEs. Interventions to promote PCEs can help to reduce unfavourable long-term health outcomes following childhood adversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Metka Kuhar
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Dunn BJ, Keane CA, Paterson JL. The Tern Programme Study protocol for an implementation trial of a flexible, long-term psychosocial intervention for complex posttraumatic stress in young people. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2021; 12:1988479. [PMID: 34868480 PMCID: PMC8635648 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.1988479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complex Trauma (CT) is a term used to refer to multiple or prolonged traumatic experiences. Such experiences are often first encountered during childhood and may impact key developmental periods. CT is a risk for a broad range of deleterious physical, psychological, social, and occupational outcomes. The diagnosis of Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) has been proposed to capture the symptomatology resulting from CT exposure.In Australia, there are few publicly funded services that target, and are purposely designed to support, the mental health needs of young people with symptoms of complex post-traumatic stress (C-PTSD). The Tern Programme has been designed as a purpose-built model of care for providing mental health support to young people with C-PTSD. METHODS This implementation trial will involve a longitudinal examination of Tern participants for a fixed 24-month period. Participants will be recruited from the young people referred to Tern at headspace centres in regional Australia where Tern operates. Eligible participants will have reported a history of complex trauma, and present with symptoms of C-PTSD. All participants will be invited to complete a series of surveys during their participation in the programme. Survey items will assess C-PTSD symptom change, quality of life and occupational functioning.The Tern model of care is delivered in a semi-structured format to accommodate a person-centred flexible approach. Fidelity will be monitored through the completion of a clinician post-session checklist and through group supervision. DISCUSSION This study will provide the first quantitative data on the new Tern model of care and evaluate mental health and functional outcomes of its participants. If effective, Tern may be suitable for replication in other Australian or international youth mental health services where complex post-traumatic stress is prevalent. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12621000079842p. Prospectively registered on 29 January 2021. ABBREVIATIONS CT = Complex Trauma; C-PTSD = Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Braden J Dunn
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Carol A Keane
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Casurina, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhan N, Xie D, Zou J, Wang J, Geng F. The validity and reliability of benevolent childhood experiences scale in Chinese community adults. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2021; 12:1945747. [PMID: 34290847 PMCID: PMC8276668 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2021.1945747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have indicated that positive childhood experiences (PCEs) might have important protective effects on adulthood mental health. However, the instruments to assess PCEs are scarce. OBJECTIVE In this study, we assessed the validity and reliability of the Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCEs) scale, a new instrument of PCEs, in a large sample of Chinese adults. Furthermore, we examined associations of PCEs with symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, as well as, prosocial behaviours across different levels of trauma. METHOD Participants were 6929 adults (33% male; mean age 38.04 years, SD = 7.81, ranging from 18 to 81.) recruited from Jiangxi and Hunan provinces in China. Self-administrated questionnaires were used to measure PCEs, childhood trauma, lifetime trauma, PTSD, depression, and prosocial behaviours. Multiple linear regression models were conducted to examine the interdependent and interactive effects of PCEs, lifetime trauma, childhood trauma on symptoms of PTSD and depression and prosocial behaviours. RESULTS In the current sample, the Cronbach's α of the BCEs scale was 0.70. PCEs were not related to lifetime trauma, while modestly associated with childhood trauma, demonstrating excellent discriminant validity. PCEs were negatively correlated with severity of PTSD and depression, while positively correlated with prosocial behaviours, indicating good predictive validity. PCEs, lifetime trauma and childhood trauma were independently associated with severity of PTSD and depression and prosocial behaviours. Moreover, the interaction of PCEs and lifetime trauma negatively predicted severity of PTSD and depression, while the interaction of PCEs and childhood trauma negatively predicted prosocial behaviours. PCEs had a protective effect on PTSD and depression in high level of lifetime trauma, and showed a reduced positive effect on prosocial behaviours in high level of childhood trauma. CONCLUSIONS The Chinese BCEs scale is a reliable and valid instrument. PCEs can buffer adversity and foster positive outcomes in adulthood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nalan Zhan
- School of Psychology, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, P.R.China
| | - Dongjie Xie
- Hangzhou College of Preschool Teacher Education, Zhejiang Normal University, Hangzhou, P.R.China
| | - Jiaqi Zou
- School of Psychology, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, P.R.China
| | - Jian Wang
- Shenzhen Mental Health Center, Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen, P.R.China
| | - Fulei Geng
- School of Psychology, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang, P.R.China
| |
Collapse
|