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It is unclear what impact, if any, early experiences with trauma may have on athletic identity. Athletic identity may serve as a protective shield for those who have adverse childhood experiences. Self-identifying as an athlete as opposed to the identity that experienced the trauma could be a defense mechanism for self-protection. The primary purpose of this exploratory study was to investigate the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and athletic identity as well as determine any influence from gender, ethnicity, and sport in a group of college athletes. Using Qualtrics software, 102 collegiate athletes currently enrolled in higher education institutions across varying NCAA divisions within the United States completed three measures: Personal Data Form, Athletic Identity Measurement Scale (AIMS), and Adverse Childhood Experiences Survey (ACES). Results found adverse childhood experiences were not significantly associated with Athletic Identity. However, results did show a difference between men and women, with a significant relationship between adverse childhood experiences and athletic identity in men but not women. Upon further examination, it was found that for men, consideration of ethnicity in conjunction with gender highlighted an even stronger relationship among Black men specifically. Implications for these findings, suggestions for university athletic departments, and recommendations for future research were made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundDespite elevated rates of trauma exposure, substance misuse, mental health problems, and suicide, systems-impacted teens and their caregivers have limited access to empirically supported behavioral health services. Family-based interventions are the most effective for improving mental health, education, substance use, and delinquency outcomes, yet the familial and placement disruption that occurs during child welfare involvement can interfere with the delivery of family-based interventions.ObjectiveTo address this gap in access to services, we adapted an in-person, empirically supported, family-based affect management intervention using a trauma-informed lens to be delivered via telehealth to families impacted by the child welfare system (Family Telehealth Project). We describe the intervention adaptation process and an open trial to evaluate its feasibility, acceptability, and impact.MethodsAdaptations to the in-person, family-based affect management intervention were conducted iteratively with input from youth, caregivers, and systems partners. Through focus groups and collaborative meetings with systems partners, a caregiver-only version of the intervention was also developed. An open trial of the intervention was conducted to assess family perspectives of its acceptability and feasibility and inform further refinements prior to a larger-scale evaluation. Participants included English-speaking families involved in the child welfare system in the past 12 months with teens (aged 12-18 years). Caregivers were eligible to participate either individually (caregivers of origin, kinship caregivers, or foster parents; n=7) or with their teen (caregiver of origin only; n=6 dyads). Participants completed session feedback forms and surveys at pretreatment, posttreatment, and 3-month posttreatment time points. Qualitative exit interviews were conducted with a subset of participants (12/19, 63%) to further understand their experiences with the intervention.ResultsSession attendance was high, and both caregivers and teens reported high acceptability of clinicians and sessions on feedback forms. Families were comfortable with video technology, with very few (

Early life stress (ELS) increases risk for psychiatric illness, including alcohol use disorder (AUD). Researchers have hypothesized that individuals with and without a history of ELS who have the same primary DSM-5 diagnosis are clinically and biologically distinct. While there is strong support for this hypothesis in the context of mood disorders, the hypothesis remains largely untested in the context of AUD. This study investigated the impact of ELS on the neuroclinical phenomenology and inflammatory profile of individuals with AUD. Treatment-seeking adults with AUD (N = 163) completed the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Questionnaire and phenotypic battery as part of a pharmacotherapy trial for AUD (NCT03594435). Participants were classified as having no-ELS, (ACE = 0) moderate-ELS, (ACE = 1, 2 or 3) or high-ELS (ACE = 4 + ). The Addictions Neuroclinical Assessment domains incentive salience and negative emotionality were derived and used to assess the neuroclinical phenomenology of AUD. We tested (1) cumulative ELS as a predictor of ANA domains and (2) ELS group differences in ANA domains. A subset of participants (N = 98) provided blood samples for a biomarker of peripheral inflammation (C-reactive protein; CRP); analyses were repeated with CRP as the outcome variable. Greater ELS predicted higher negative emotionality and elevated CRP, but not incentive salience. The high-ELS group exhibited greater negative emotionality compared with the no-ELS and moderate-ELS groups, with no difference between the latter two groups. The high-ELS group exhibited elevated CRP compared with the no/moderate-ELS group. Findings suggest that high-ELS exposure is associated with a unique AUD neuroclinical presentation marked by greater negative emotionality, and inflammatory profile characterized by elevated peripheral CRP.

PurposeTraumatic brain injury (TBI) and potentially traumatic events (PTEs) contribute to increased substance use, mental health issues, and cognitive impairments. However, there's not enough research on how TBI and PTEs combined impact mental heath, substance use, and neurocognition.MethodsThis study leverages a subset of The National Consortium on Alcohol and Neurodevelopment in Adolescence (NCANDA) multi-site dataset with 551 adolescents to assess the combined and distinctive impacts of TBI, PTEs, and TBI+PTEs (prior to age 18) on substance use, mental health, and neurocognitive outcomes at age 18.ResultsTBI, PTEs, and TBI+PTEs predicted greater lifetime substance use and past-year alcohol and cannabis use. PTEs predicted greater internalizing symptoms, while TBI+PTEs predicted greater externalizing symptoms. Varying effects on neurocognitive outcomes included PTEs influencing attention accuracy and TBI+PTEs predicting faster speed in emotion tasks. PTEs predicted greater accuracy in abstraction-related tasks. Associations with working memory were not detected.ConclusionThis exploratory study contributes to the growing literature on the complex interplay between TBI, PTEs, and adolescent mental health, substance use, and neurocognition. The developmental implications of trauma via TBIs and/or PTEs during adolescence are considerable and worthy of further investigation.

Adverse early-life experiences (ELA) affect a majority of the worlds children. Whereas the enduring impact of ELA on cognitive and emotional health is established, there are no tools to predict vulnerability to ELA consequences in an individual child. Epigenetic markers including peripheral-cell DNA-methylation profiles may encode ELA and provide predictive outcome markers, yet the interindividual variance of the human genome and rapid changes in DNA methylation in childhood pose significant challenges. Hoping to mitigate these challenges we examined the relation of several ELA dimensions to DNA methylation changes and outcome using a within-subject longitudinal design and a high methylation-change threshold. DNA methylation was analyzed in buccal swab/saliva samples collected twice (neonatally and at 12 months) in 110 infants. We identified CpGs differentially methylated across time for each child and determined whether they associated with ELA indicators and executive function at age 5. We assessed sex differences and derived a sex-dependent impact score based on sites that most contributed to methylation changes. Changes in methylation between two samples of an individual child reflected age-related trends and correlated with executive function years later. Among tested ELA dimensions and life factors including income to needs ratios, maternal sensitivity, body mass index and infant sex, unpredictability of parental and household signals was the strongest predictor of executive function. In girls, high early-life unpredictability interacted with methylation changes to presage executive function. Thus, longitudinal, within-subject changes in methylation profiles may provide a signature of ELA and a potential predictive marker of individual outcome.

This systematic review examines the impact of parental preconception adversity on offspring mental health among African Americans (AAs) and Native Americans (NAs), two populations that have experienced historical trauma and currently experience ethnic/racial mental health disparities in the United States. PsycINFO, PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for studies that included at least two generations of AAs or NAs from the same family, measured parental preconception adversity and their offsprings mental health, and examined the association between these variables. Over 3,200 articles were screened, and 18 articles representing 13 unique studies were included in this review. Among the studies with samples that included AAs (n = 12, 92%), 10 (83%) reported a significant association between parental preconception adversity and adverse offspring mental health. The only study with a sample of NAs (n = 1, 8%) also reported a significant association between these variables. Although the literature suggests that parental preconception adversity is associated with offspring mental health among AAs and NAs, it must be interpreted in the context of the small number of studies on this topic and the less-than-ideal samples utilized-just one study included a sample of NAs and several studies (n = 6, 46%) used multi-ethnic/racial samples without testing for ethnic/racial disparities in their results. A more rigorous body of literature on this topic is needed as it may help explain an important factor underlying ethnic/racial mental health disparities, with important implications for interventions and policy.

IntroductionThe concept of patient-provider trust in prenatal adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) screening remains unexplored. This concept analysis illuminates the role of trust in prenatal ACE screening to improve patient-provider relationships, increase patient uptake of ACE screening, and ensure that ACE screening is implemented in a strengths-based, trauma-informed way.MethodsA concept analysis was conducted using the Rodgers' evolutionary method to define the antecedents, attributes, and consequences of this construct. The databases searched were PubMed, PsychInfo, and Scopus between 2010 and 2021. A total of 389 articles were retrieved using the search terms prenatal, adverse childhood experiences screening, adverse childhood experiences, and adverse childhood experiences questionnaire. Included articles for detailed review contained prenatal screening, trauma screening (ACE or other), trust or building trust between patient and health care provider, patient engagement, and shared decision making. Excluded articles were those not in the context of prenatal care and that were exclusively about screening with no discussion about the patient-provider relationship or patient perspectives. A total of 32 articles were reviewed for this concept analysis.ResultsWe define trust in prenatal ACE screening as a network of evidence-based attributes that include the timing of the screening, patient familiarity with the health care provider, cultural competence, demystifying trauma, open dialogue between the patient and health care provider, and patient comfort and respect.DiscussionThis concept analysis elucidates the importance of ACE screening and provides suggestions for establishing trust in the context of prenatal ACE screening. Results give insight and general guidance for health care providers looking to implement ACE screening in a trauma-informed way. Further research is needed to evaluate pregnant patients' attitudes toward ACE screening and how a health care provider's trauma history might influence their care. More inquiry is needed to understand the racial, ethnic, and cultural barriers to ACE screening.

Adolescence is characterized by dynamic neurodevelopment, which poses opportunities for risk and resilience. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) confer additional risk to the developing brain, where ACEs have been associated with alterations in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) BOLD signaling in brain regions underlying inhibitory control. Socioenvironmental factors like the family environment may amplify or buffer against the neurodevelopmental risks associated with ACEs. Using baseline to Year 2 follow-up data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, the current study examined how ACEs relate to fMRI BOLD signaling during successful inhibition on the Stop Signal Task in regions associated with inhibitory control and examined whether family conflict levels moderated that relationship. Results showed that greater ACEs were associated with reduced BOLD response in the right opercular region of the inferior frontal gyrus and bilaterally in the pre-supplementary motor area, which are key regions underlying inhibitory control. Further, greater BOLD response was correlated with less impulsivity behaviorally, suggesting reduced activation may not be behaviorally adaptive at this age. No significant two or three-way interactions with family conflict levels or time were found. Findings highlight the continued utility of examining the relationship between ACEs and neurodevelopmental outcomes and the importance of intervention/prevention of ACES.

OBJECTIVE: Trauma history is associated with SLE onset and worse patient-reported outcomes; perceived stress is associated with greater SLE disease activity. Stress perceptions vary in response to life events and may be influenced by psychosocial factors. In an SLE cohort, we examined whether stressful events associated with perceived stress, whether psychosocial factors affected perceived stress, and whether these relationships varied by prior trauma exposure. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional analysis of data from the California Lupus Epidemiology Study, an adult SLE cohort. Multivariable linear regression analyses controlling for age, gender, educational attainment, income, SLE damage, comorbid conditions, glucocorticoids ≥7.5 mg/day and depression examined associations of recent stressful events (Life Events Inventory) and positive (resilience, self-efficacy, emotional support) and negative (social isolation) psychosocial factors with perceived stress. Analyses were stratified by lifetime trauma history (Brief Trauma Questionnaire (BTQ)) and by adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in a subset. RESULTS: Among 242 individuals with SLE, a greater number of recent stressful events was associated with greater perceived stress (beta (95% CI)=0.20 (0.07 to 0.33), p=0.003). Positive psychosocial factor score representing resilience, self-efficacy and emotional support was associated with lower perceived stress when accounting for number of stressful events (-0.67 (-0.94 to -0.40), p

ObjectiveTo determine the associations between the number of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and objectively-measured physical activity (PA) in a population-based, demographically diverse cohort of 9-14-year-olds and to determine which subtypes of ACEs were associated with physical activity levels.MethodsWe analyzed data (n = 7046) from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study 4.0 release at baseline and year 2 follow-up. ACE (cumulative score and subtypes) and physical activity (average Fitbit daily steps assessed at Year 2) were analyzed using linear regression analyses. Covariates included race and ethnicity, sex, household income, parent education, body mass index, study site, twins/siblings, and data collection period.ResultsAdjusted models suggest an inverse association between number of ACEs and Fitbit daily steps, with ≥4 (compared to 0) ACEs associated with 567 fewer daily steps (95% CI -902.2, -232.2). Of the ACEs subtypes, emotional abuse (B = -719.3, 95% CI -1430.8, -7.9), physical neglect (B = -423.7, 95% CI -752.8, -94.6), household mental illness (B = -317.1, 95% CI -488.3, -145.9), and household divorce or separation (B = -275.4, 95% CI -521.5, -29.2) were inversely and statistically significant associated with Fitbit daily steps after adjusting for confounders.ConclusionsOur results suggest that there is an inverse, dose-dependent relationship between cumulative number of ACEs and physical activity as measured by daily steps. This work highlights the importance of screening for ACEs among young people at an early age to help identify those who could benefit from interventions or community programs that support increased physical activity.

BACKGROUND: Evidence suggests that early life adversity is associated with maladaptive behaviors and is commonly an antecedent of stress-related psychopathology. This is particularly relevant to rearing in primate species as infant primates depend on prolonged, nurturant rearing by caregivers for normal development. To further understand the consequences of early life rearing adversity, and the relation among alterations in behavior, physiology and brain function, we assessed young monkeys that had experienced maternal separation followed by peer rearing with behavioral, endocrine and multimodal neuroimaging measures. METHODS: 50 young rhesus monkeys were studied, half of which were rejected by their mothers and peer reared, and the other half were reared by their mothers. Assessments were performed at approximately 1.8 years of age and included: threat related behavioral and cortisol responses, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) measurements of oxytocin and corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), and multimodal neuroimaging measures (anatomical scans, resting functional connectivity, diffusion tensor imaging, and threat-related regional glucose metabolism). RESULTS: The results demonstrated alterations across behavioral, endocrine, and neuroimaging measures in young monkeys that were reared without their mothers. At a behavioral level in response to a potential threat, peer reared animals engaged in significantly less freezing behavior (p = 0.022) along with increased self-directed behaviors (p

Early life stress (ELS) is defined as an acute or chronic stressor that negatively impacts a child's development. ELS is associated with substance use and mental health problems. This narrative literature review focuses on sex and gender differences in the effects of ELS on 1) adolescent neuroendocrine development; 2) pubertal brain maturation; and 3) development of internalizing symptoms and subsequent substance use. We posit that ELS may generate larger hormonal dysregulation in females than males during puberty, increasing internalizing symptoms and substance use. Future research should consider sex and gender differences in neuroendocrine developmental processes when studying the link between ELS and negative health outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are strongly correlated with many of the most common causes of preventable illness, preventable death, and health disparities. In January 2020, California launched the first statewide initiative to integrate ACE screening throughout its Medicaid system. A key element of the initiative was the California ACEs Learning and Quality Improvement Collaborative, a 48-clinic, 16-month learning collaborative. This evaluation aimed to determine whether developing a trauma-informed environment of care was associated with uptake of ACE screening. METHODS: Participants included 40 of 48 clinics that participated in the statewide learning collaborative. Clinics completed an assessment of progress in 5 essential components of trauma-informed health care at baseline and 1-year follow-up. Clinics tracked data on ACE screens completed on an ongoing basis and submitted data quarterly. A hierarchical linear model was used to examine the association between change in readiness for trauma-informed health care and change in quarterly screens. RESULTS: Readiness for trauma-informed health care increased for all participating clinics over the course of the learning collaborative. The average number of quarterly screens also increased, with considerable variability among clinics. Clinics with larger increases in readiness for trauma-informed health care had larger increases in quarterly screens. DISCUSSION: The findings align with long-standing recommendations for trauma screening to occur in the context of trauma-informed environments of care. CONCLUSION: A trauma-informed clinic is the foundation for successful adoption of ACE screening. ACE screening initiatives should include education and sufficient support for clinics to embrace a trauma-informed systems change process.

Both adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and bullying victimization are linked with mental health problems in adolescents. However, little is known about the overlap between the two factors and how this impacts adolescent mental health problems (i.e., internalizing and externalizing problems). The current study analyzed data from 8,085 participants (47.7% female; 44.1% racial/ethnic minority) in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, baseline (2016-2018, ages 9-10 years) to Year 2. Regression analyses were used to estimate associations between ACEs, bullying victimization and mental health problems, respectively, adjusting for sex, race/ethnicity, country of birth, household income, parental education, and study site. The findings showed that both ACEs and bullying victimization were independently associated with higher internalizing and higher externalizing problems. However, no significant interaction was found between ACEs and bullying victimization. Overall, the results align with the cumulative risk model of adversity, linking cumulative ACEs and bullying victimization to internalizing and externalizing problems in early adolescents.

In this study, the effect of cumulative ACEs experienced on human maternal DNA methylation (DNAm) was estimated while accounting for interaction with domains of ACEs in prenatal peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples from the Maternal and Developmental Risks from Environmental Stressors (MADRES) pregnancy cohort. The intergenerational transmission of ACE-associated DNAm was also explored used paired maternal (N = 120) and neonatal cord blood (N = 69) samples. Replication in buccal samples was explored in the Childrens Health Study (CHS) among adult parental (N = 31) and pediatric (N = 114) samples. We used a four-level categorical indicator variable for ACEs exposure: none (0 ACEs), low (1-3 ACEs), moderate (4-6 ACEs), and high (>6 ACEs). Effects of ACEs on maternal DNAm (N = 240) were estimated using linear models. To evaluate evidence for intergenerational transmission, mediation analysis (N = 60 mother-child pairs) was used. Analysis of maternal samples displayed some shared but mostly distinct effects of ACEs on DNAm across low, moderate, and high ACEs categories. CLCN7 and PTPRN2 was associated with maternal DNAm in the low ACE group and this association replicated in the CHS. CLCN7 was also nominally significant in the gene expression correlation analysis among maternal profiles (N = 35), along with 11 other genes. ACE-associated methylation was observed in maternal and neonatal profiles in the COMT promoter region, with some evidence of mediation by maternal COMT methylation. Specific genomic loci exhibited mutually exclusive maternal ACE effects on DNAm in either maternal or neonatal population. There is some evidence for an intergenerational effect of ACEs, supported by shared DNAm signatures in the COMT gene across maternal-neonatal paired samples.

Early-life stress experiences can produce lasting impacts on organismal adaptation and fitness. How transient stress elicits memory-like physiological effects is largely unknown. Here, we show that early-life thermal stress strongly up-regulates tsp-1, a gene encoding the conserved transmembrane tetraspanin in C. elegans. TSP-1 forms prominent multimers and stable web-like structures critical for membrane barrier functions in adults and during aging. Increased TSP-1 abundance persists even after transient early-life heat stress. Such regulation requires CBP-1, a histone acetyltransferase that facilitates initial tsp-1 transcription. Tetraspanin webs form regular membrane structures and mediate resilience-promoting effects of early-life thermal stress. Gain-of-function TSP-1 confers marked C. elegans longevity extension and thermal resilience in human cells. Together, our results reveal a cellular mechanism by which early-life thermal stress produces long-lasting memory-like impact on organismal resilience and longevity.

IntroductionAdverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are linked to higher rates of psychiatric disorders in adults. Previous neuroimaging studies with small samples have shown associations between ACEs and alterations in brain volume, connectivity, and blood flow. However, no study has explored these associations in a large clinical population to identify brain regions that may mediate the relationship between ACEs and psychiatric diagnoses. This study aims to evaluate how patient-reported ACEs are associated with brain function in adults, across diagnoses.MethodsWe analyzed 7,275 adults using HMPAO SPECT scans at rest and during a continuous performance task (CPT). We assessed the impact of ACEs on brain function across psychiatric diagnoses and performed mediation analyses where brain functional regions of interest acted as mediators between patient-reported ACEs and specific psychiatric diagnoses. We further evaluated the risk of being diagnosed with specific classes of mental illnesses as a function of increasing ACEs and identified which specific ACE questions were statistically related to each diagnosis in this cohort.ResultsIncreased ACEs were associated with higher activity in cognitive control and default mode networks and decreased activity in the dorsal striatum and cerebellum. Higher ACEs increased the risk of anxiety-related disorders, substance abuse, and depression. Several brain regions were identified as potential mediators between ACEs and adult psychiatric diagnoses.DiscussionThis study, utilizing a large clinical cohort, provides new insights into the neurobiological mechanisms linking ACEs to adult psychiatric conditions. The findings suggest that specific brain regions mediate the effects of ACEs on the risk of developing mental health disorders, highlighting potential targets for therapeutic interventions.

Background: Early adversity increases the risk for mental and physical disorders as well as premature death. Epigenetic processes, and altered epigenetic aging in particular, might mediate these effects. While the literature that examined links between early adversity and epigenetic aging is growing, results have been heterogeneous.Objective: In the current work, we explored the link between early adversity and epigenetic aging in a sample of formerly out-of-home placed young adults.Method: A total of N = 117 young adults (32% women, age mean = 26.3 years, SD = 3.6 years) with previous youth residential care placements completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) and the Life Events Checklist (LEC-R) and provided blood samples for the analysis of DNA methylation using the Illumina Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip Microarray. Epigenetic age was estimated using Hovarths and Hannums epigenetic clocks. Furthermore, Hovarths and Hannums epigenetic age residuals were calculated as a proxy of epigenetic aging by regressing epigenetic age on chronological age. The statistical analysis plan was preregistered (https://osf.io/b9ev8).Results: Childhood trauma (CTQ) was negatively associated with Hannums epigenetic age residuals, β = -.23, p = .004 when controlling for sex, BMI, smoking status and proportional white blood cell type estimates. This association was driven by experiences of physical neglect, β = -.25, p = .001. Lifetime trauma exposure (LEC-R) was not a significant predictor of epigenetic age residuals.Conclusion: Childhood trauma, and physical neglect in particular, was associated with decelerated epigenetic aging in our sample. More studies focusing on formerly institutionalized at-risk populations are needed to better understand which factors affect stress-related adaptations following traumatic experiences.

IntroductionAdverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are common and have been associated with poor developmental outcomes. We aimed to investigate the relationship between early ACE exposure, subsequent diagnosis of developmental delay, and receipt of developmental delay services by young children. In addition, we aimed to assess the impact of health-promoting behaviors such as breastfeeding and daily reading on these relationships.MethodsIn this cross-sectional analysis of nationally-representative data from the 2017-2018 National Survey of Children's Health, we examined the relationship between ACEs, prior breastfeeding, daily reading, and developmental delay diagnosis among 7837 children aged 3-5 years, using multivariate logistic regression to adjust for family, personal, and sociodemographic characteristics.ResultsWe found a dose-dependent relationship between ACEs and developmental delay diagnosis; compared to those without ACEs, developmental delay was more common among those with either one ACE (aOR = 2.03, 95% CI 1.17-3.52) or two or more ACEs (aOR = 2.34, 95% CI 1.25-4.37). Neither breastfeeding (exclusively breastfed for 6 months vs. never breastfed aOR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.33-1.46) nor daily reading (no reading versus daily reading aOR = 1.15, CI 0.57-2.33) were associated with incidence of developmental delay among study participants. There was no significant difference in receipt of services intended to meet developmental needs between children with and without ACEs.DiscussionChildren with very early ACE exposure are at increased risk for diagnosis of developmental delay. Early screening for ACEs and developmental delay may mitigate the early developmental manifestations of ACE exposure in vulnerable children.

IntroductionAlthough adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been positively associated with adiposity, few studies have examined long-term race-specific ACE-BMI relationships.MethodsA Black and White all-women cohort (N=611; 48.6% Black) was followed between 1987 and 1997 from childhood (ages 9-10 years) through adolescence (ages 19-20 years) to midlife (ages 36-43 years, between 2015 and 2019). In these 2020-2022 analyses, the interaction between race and individual ACE exposures (physical abuse, sexual abuse, household substance abuse, multiple ACEs) on continuous BMI at ages 19-20 years and midlife was evaluated individually through multivariable linear regression models. Stratification by race followed as warranted at α=0.15.ResultsRace only modified ACE-BMI associations for sexual abuse. Among Black women, sexual abuse was significantly associated with BMI (Badjusted=3.24, 95% CI=0.92, 5.57) at ages 19-20 years and marginally associated at midlife (Badjusted=2.37, 95% CI= -0.62, 5.35); among White women, corresponding associations were null. Overall, having ≥2 ACEs was significantly associated with adolescent BMI (Badjusted=1.47, 95% CI=0.13, 2.80) and was marginally associated at midlife (Badjusted=1.45, 95% CI= -0.31, 3.22). This was similarly observed for physical abuse (adolescent BMI: Badjusted=1.23, 95% CI= -0.08, 2.54; midlife BMI: Badjusted=1.03, 95% CI= -0.71, 2.78), but not for substance abuse.ConclusionsDirect exposure to certain severe ACEs is associated with increased BMI among Black and White women. It is important to consider race, ACE type, and life stage to gain a more sophisticated understanding of ACE-BMI relationships. This knowledge can help strengthen intervention, prevention, and policy efforts aiming to mitigate the impacts of social adversities and trauma on persistent cardiometabolic health disparities over the lifecourse.

AbstractBackground: In this study, we explored the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and childhood protective factors (i.e., resilience) with outpatient treatment outcomes among youths receiving buprenorphine-based medication for opioid use disorder over a six-month period. Methods: An observational study was conducted among 42 participants utilizing the modified Adverse Childhood Experience Questionnaire and the Southern Kennebec Healthy Start Resilience survey. Treatment outcomes included the end of treatment, buprenorphine-based medication treatment nonadherence, and opioid relapse. Cox proportional hazard models were fit for all treatment outcomes. Results: Reported adverse childhood experiences were high compared with the national average and demonstrated a significant inverse association with time to buprenorphine treatment nonadherence. Total resilience score was not significantly associated with any treatment outcome. Analysis of potential confounders and other covariates likewise demonstrated no relationship. Conclusions: Higher reported adverse childhood experience scores were associated with greater hazard of buprenorphine-based medication nonadherence. This finding underscores the need for ACE screening and trauma-informed care in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and falls in older adults, and the mediating effects of depression on such associations. This is a prospective study used survey data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Twelve expanded ACEs obtained from the 2014 Life History Survey. Depression levels were assessed using the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale-10. Self-reported outcomes of falling evaluated based on "Have you fallen down since the last survey?" and "How many times have you fallen down seriously enough to need medical treatment?" Logistic regression models were used to explore the relationship between ACEs with falls and recurrent falls. Poisson regression models were used to explore the relationship between ACEs and number of severe falls. Besides, mediation analysis was used to explore whether depression mediates the relationship between ACEs and falls in older adults. The more adverse childhood experiences experienced, the higher the risk of fall and recurrent falls, and the more severe the falls. Additionally, depression partially mediated the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and falls. Besides, middle-aged individuals were more susceptible to the impact of adverse childhood experiences on falls than older individuals, especially males. Exposure to adverse childhood experiences is associated with falls in older adults, and depression partially mediates this association. Middle-aged adults were more susceptible to the impact of adverse childhood experiences on falls. These offer important information for clinical practice and public health interventions to prevent falls and reduce fall-related injuries among older adults. [Display omitted] • Are ACEs associated with falls in older adults and does depression mediate such an association? • Exposure to more ACEs was associated with higher risk of falls, recurrent falls, and more severe falls. • Depression partially mediated the effect of ACEs on falls. • Middle-aged adults were more susceptible to the impact of ACEs on falls than older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Depression is a significant public health concern. Identifying biopsychosocial risk factors for depression is important for developing targeted prevention. Studies have demonstrated that blunted striatal activation during reward processing is a risk factor for depression; however, few have prospectively examined whether adolescent reward-related resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) predicts depression symptoms in adulthood and how this relates to known risk factors (e.g., childhood trauma). At baseline, 66 adolescents (mean age = 14.7, SD = 1.4, 68 % female) underwent rsFC magnetic resonance imaging and completed the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI). At follow-up (mean time between adolescent scan and adult follow-up = 10.1 years, SD = 1.6, mean adult age = 24.8 years, SD = 1.7), participants completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) and Beck Depression Inventory– Second Edition (BDI-2). Average rsFC was calculated between nodes in mesocorticolimbic reward circuitry: ventral striatum (VS), rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC), medial orbitofrontal cortex, and ventral tegmental area. Linear regressions assessed associations between rsFC, BDI-2, and CTQ, controlling for adolescent CDI, sex assigned at birth, and scan age (Bonferroni corrected). Greater childhood trauma was associated with higher adulthood depression symptoms. Stronger VS-rACC rsFC during adolescence was associated with greater depression symptoms in adulthood and greater childhood trauma. The small sample size, limited depression severity, and seed-based approach are limitations. The associations between adolescent striatal-cingulate rsFC and childhood trauma and adult depression symptoms suggest this connectivity may be an early neurobiological risk factor for depression and that early life experience plays an important role. Increased VS-rACC connectivity may represent an over-regulatory response on the striatum, commonly reported in depression, and warrants further investigation. • Depression rates are rising and childhood trauma is a risk factor for depression. • Trauma-exposed and depressed populations show reward-related neural aberrations. • Adolescent reward-related neural aberrations were related to adulthood depression. • Childhood trauma was associated with the same adolescent neural aberrations. • Further investigation of biopsychosocial risk factors of depression is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood trauma is closely tied to adult depression, but the neurobiological mechanisms remain unclear. Previous studies suggested associations between depression and large-scale brain networks such as the Ventral Attention Network (VAN) and Somatosensory Motor Network (SMN). This study hypothesized that functional connectivity (FC) within and between these networks mediates the link between childhood trauma and adult depression. The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) assessed developmental experiences, and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD-17) gauged depressive symptoms. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) analyzed FC within and between the VAN and SMN. Depression group exhibited significantly higher HAMD and CTQ scores, as well as elevated FC within the VAN and between the VAN and SMN (P < 0.05). Positive correlations were found between HAMD total score and FC within the VAN (P < 0.05, r = 0.35) and between the VAN and SMN (P < 0.05, r = 0.34), as well as with CTQ total score (P < 0.05, r = 0.27). Positive correlations were also observed between CTQ total score and FC within the VAN (P < 0.05, r = 0.31) and between the VAN and SMN (P < 0.05, r = 0.29). In the mediation model, FC within and between the VAN and SMN significantly mediated childhood trauma and depression. The cross-sectional design limits causal inference. The sample size for different trauma types is relatively small, urging caution in generalizing findings. The study underscores the association between depression severity, VAN dysfunction, abnormal VAN-SMN FC, and childhood trauma. These findings contribute to understanding the neurobiological mechanisms underlying childhood trauma and depression. • Ventral attention and sensorimotor network connectivity changes are characteristic of MDD compared to healthy controls. • Childhood trauma affects the ventral attention and sensorimotor network functional connectivity. • The ventral attention and sensorimotor networks mediate the link between childhood trauma and depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicide is a leading cause of death globally and a serious public health concern. Childhood trauma has been found to be associated with adult suicide vulnerability. Recent research has turned attention to investigating the role of attachment in the context of the childhood trauma-adult suicide relationship. The current study investigated for the first time whether attachment influences and moderates the childhood trauma-suicidality relationship, using a daily diary design, in the general population. 481 participants completed questionnaires assessing experiences of childhood trauma, attachment patterns, and history of suicidality. 243 participants continued to a daily diary phase where measures of daily stress, defeat and entrapment were completed for 7 consecutive days. Higher levels of childhood trauma were associated with a history of suicide ideation and attempt and also higher levels of daily defeat, entrapment and stress during the 7 day study. Similarly, higher levels of attachment anxiety and avoidance were associated with a history of suicide ideation and attempt together with higher levels of daily defeat, entrapment and stress. However, the effects of childhood trauma on suicide history and on daily suicide vulnerability factors were not moderated by attachment anxiety or avoidance. The measure of childhood trauma was a retrospective self-report tool that may be influenced by memory biases. Childhood trauma and insecure attachment are implicated in adult suicide risk. Interventions aimed at mitigating the negative effects of childhood trauma and insecure attachment should also incorporate components that target modifiable risk factors such as defeat, entrapment and stress. • Childhood trauma and insecure attachment are implicated in suicide risk. • Childhood trauma is associated with higher daily defeat, entrapment and stress. • Insecure attachment is associated with higher daily defeat, entrapment and stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe present study examined the association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and body mass index (BMI) status among children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN), and the role of health characteristics and lifestyle factors in predicting BMI. Data from the 2016–2020 National Survey of Children’s Health were utilized. Key variables included: ACEs, BMI status, level of functional impairment, depression, weekly level of physical activity, and daily screen time. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression analyses were used to examine associations between selected variables and BMI status. The sample consisted of 19,743 CYSHCN. Respectively, CYSHCN with exposure to 1–2 ACEs (vs. none) and 3+ ACEs (vs. none), had a 22% and 32% increase in odds of a one-level increase in BMI status, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, level of functional impairment, and depression. When lifestyle factors (i.e., physical activity and screen time) were included in analyses, CYSHCN with exposure to 3+ ACEs (vs. none) had a 27% increase in odds of a one-level increase in BMI status. Thus, we found that ACEs were significantly associated with BMI status. However, the strength of this relation changed when considering CYSHCN health characteristics and CYSHCN lifestyle factors. A higher weekly level of physical activity, in particular, seemed to play a significant role in reducing risk of higher BMI status among CYSHCN with exposure to 3+ ACEs (vs. none). Findings support the development of physical activity promotion programs and education regarding strategic utilization of screen time (e.g., educational apps and games) for CYSHCN and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with mental health problems, but many children who experience ACEs do not develop such difficulties. A warm and supportive adult presence in childhood is associated with a lower likelihood of developing mental health problems after exposure to ACEs. However, it is unclear whether this association is causal, as previous research has not accounted for genetic and environmental confounding.We used the twin‐difference design to strengthen causal inference about whether a warm and supportive adult presence protects children exposed to ACEs from mental health problems. Participants were from the Environmental Risk (E‐Risk) Longitudinal Twin Study, a UK population‐representative birth cohort of 2,232 same‐sex twins. ACEs were measured prospectively from ages 5 to 12. Maternal warmth was assessed at ages 5 and 10 through maternal speech samples. Adult support was assessed through child reports at age 12. Mental health problems were assessed through interviews at age 12 with parents and teachers and participants at age 18.Among children exposed to ACEs, those who experienced greater maternal warmth and adult support had lower levels of mental health problems at ages 12 and 18. In monozygotic twin‐difference analyses, the protective effects of maternal warmth and adult support on mental health were attenuated by 70% for maternal warmth and 81% for adult support, compared to phenotypic analyses. Twins who experienced greater maternal warmth and adult support had minimal or no difference in mental health compared to their co‐twins, concordant for ACE exposure.The apparent protective effect of a warm, supportive adult against mental health problems following ACEs is largely explained by genetic and environmental confounding. This suggests that interventions which boost maternal warmth and adult support should be supplemented by components addressing wider family environments and heritable vulnerabilities in children exposed to adversity, to improve mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is growing awareness and empirical support for targeting strengths and resilience when providing services to youth and families who have been impacted by adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and trauma. The purpose of this article is to highlight strengths-based, resilience-enhancing (SBRE) clinical applications that can be incorporated into ACE-informed therapeutic services. Twenty treatment components are described and organized into six main categories that chronicle the course of therapy: Relationship Development, Stabilization, Engagement, Assessment, Intervention, and Prevention. SBRE services assist youth in adaptively coping with life adversity, and acquiring the knowledge, skills, and strengths for leading psychologically healthy, resilient lives. It is hoped this article will stimulate interest from both clinicians and researchers regarding the SBRE model, which is being introduced here for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity Conclusions Many students would benefit from trauma‐informed physical activity (PA); however, there is a lack of systematic guidance on incorporating trauma‐informed practices across school‐based PA opportunities. The purpose of this study was to generate a feasible framework for trauma‐informed school‐based PA.Framework development was guided by a modified Delphi approach, including an exploration phase and an evaluation phase. First, a multidisciplinary working group reviewed extant literature, mapping trauma‐informed practices onto the domains and components of the Comprehensive School Physical Activity Program (CSPAP). Subsequently, experts (n = 14) provided quantitative feedback on the utility and feasibility of these practices.Thirty‐three practices met pre‐determined thresholds for utility and feasibility. Across CSPAP domains, this included attending to: (a) safety; (b) positive communication and relationships; (c) empowerment, choice, and voice; (d) emotion management and skill building; (e) instructor competencies and support; and (f) cultural, historical, and gender issues.Incorporating trauma‐informed practices into existing frameworks and approaches to school‐based PA may promote uptake of practices that help meet the social and emotional needs of trauma‐exposed youth.The present output provides a foundation for generating tools and supports for incorporating trauma‐informed practices into school‐based PA promotion efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Methods Results Discussion and Conclusions Childhood traumatic experiences (CTE) have been identified as a robust risk factor for a range of substance use behaviours. However, little is known about their association with adolescent vaping. We explored prospective associations between CTEs and vaping among a sample of Australian adolescents.The sample comprised 2234 adolescents (baseline Mage = 12.7 years, SD = 0.5; 49.9% female) enrolled in the Health4Life cluster randomised controlled trial. Using mixed effects logistic regression analyses, data from the baseline and 36‐month assessment waves were used to examine whether CTEs (by ~ age 12) were associated with current or lifetime vaping and future intentions to vape (~ age 15).Adjusting for socio‐demographic variables, CTE exposure at baseline was associated with higher odds of ever having vaped (odds ratio 1.64, 95% confidence interval 1.34, 2.02), and of being a current regular vape user (odds ratio 1.63, 95% confidence interval 1.11, 2.39). Experiencing CTEs was also associated with higher odds of intending to vape in the future (odds ratio 1.44, 95% confidence interval 1.11, 1.86).This study is the first to identify CTEs as a risk factor for vaping, and intentions to vape in the future, among Australian adolescents. These findings align with global research and highlight another common risk factor across various forms of substance use. CTE exposed adolescents represent a priority group who may require earlier and more targeted vaping intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neurocognitive impairment is one of the prominent manifestations of major depressive disorder (MDD). Childhood trauma enhances vulnerability to developing MDD and contributes to neurocognitive dysfunctions. However, the distinct impacts of different types of childhood trauma on neurocognitive processes in MDD remain unclear. Methods: This study comprised 186 individuals diagnosed with MDD and 268 healthy controls. Childhood trauma was evaluated using the 28-item Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form. Neurocognitive abilities, encompassing sustained attention, vigilance, visual memory, and executive functioning, were measured by the Cambridge Neuropsychological Testing Automated Battery. Results: Multivariable linear regressions revealed that childhood trauma and MDD diagnosis were independently associated with neurocognitive impairment. Physical neglect was associated with impaired visual memory and working memory. MDD diagnosis is associated with working memory and planning. Interactive analysis revealed that physical/sexual abuse was associated with a high level of vigilance and that emotional neglect was linked with better performance on cognitive flexibility in MDD patients. Furthermore, childhood emotional abuse, physical abuse, and emotional neglect were revealed to be risk factors for developing early-onset, chronic depressive episodes. Conclusion: Thus, specific associations between various childhood traumas and cognitive development in depression are complex phenomena that need further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to validate the Croatian version of the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire 10-item version (ACE-10) in a sample of 293 emerging adults (mean age 22 years old; 56.9% women). ACE-10 is a self-report retrospective questionnaire that assesses abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction. Measures of depression, anxiety, stress, and resilience were included to assess concurrent validity. The results confirmed the expected two-factor structure, displaying robust psychometric properties and concurrent validity. The ACE-10 proves reliable, making it well-suited for examining adverse childhood experiences in Croatian samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Negative birth experiences are common. It is yet unclear which women may be most at risk already before pregnancy. Childhood trauma and non-autonoumous/unresolved attachment state of mind may affect how women experience giving birth. This study used longitudinal data to test childhood trauma and attachment state of mind as predictors of birth experience in at-risk sample of primipara women (N = 193). The Adverse Childhood Experiences questionnaire and the Adult Attachment interview were administered during pregnancy, and women reported about their birth experience three months postpartum. Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling was applied to answer the research questions. Childhood physical neglect and parental substance abuse were predictive of a more negative birth experience, while attachment state of mind was not associated with how women experienced giving birth. Cross-validation suggests that these findings may be considered externally valid. Further research using validated measures on birth experience are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of death worldwide, emerging from a combination of several factors. The aim of this review is to define the psychological factors that are significant in the development and progression of these disorders. Methods: Studies published through 2023 concerning adults with psychological vulnerability factors and/or cardiovascular disease were selected through searches of PubMed, PsychINFO, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. Results: Psychological stress may influence CVD, in combination with other risk factors, or it can act independently, as in cases of workplace stress, post-traumatic stress disorder, Takotsubo syndrome and bereavement. Coping strategies, anxiety and depression have also been identified as relevant psychological factors in cardiac patients. Adverse childhood experiences are linked to a reduced quality of life and have been identified as significant risk factors for the development of acquired CVDs. Conclusion: This review demonstrates that several psychological factors affect cardiovascular function. An in-depth study of the psychological correlates of CVDs would allow healthcare professionals to design more effective prevention and intervention programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate whether a potential moral cognitive impairment (failure in understanding moral rules) exists in patients with schizophrenia (SCZ) and to explore the effect of childhood trauma (CT) on moral cognition in a group of patients with SCZ. Methods: A total of 99 patients with SCZ and 102 healthy controls (HCs) were included in this study. The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire-Short Form (CTQ) was administered to assess childhood trauma experiences in both groups, while the Moral Identity Measure (MIM) and the Moral Foundations Questionnaire (MFQ) were applied for a comparative evaluation of moral cognition across the two groups. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) was administered to assess the psychopathology. Results: Patients with schizophrenia had significantly greater CTQ scores than HCs (42.77 ± 13.50 vs. 29.11 ± 4.25, t =9.697, p <0.001). The prevalence of childhood trauma (χ 2 = 58.452, p <0.001) and history of aggressive behaviors (χ 2 = 23.565, p =0.001) among patients with SCZ were greater than that among HCs. In addition, the scores of moral cognition (MIM: 61.82 ± 15.12 vs. 70.88 ± 8.87, p =0.001; MFQ: 87.24 ± 22.30 vs. 112.62 ± 23.42, p =0.045) in the SCZ group was lower than that in the HC group after controlling for the influence of CT covariates. The MFQ score was negatively correlated with the CTQ score, the emotional abuse (EA) score, the physical abuse (PA) score and the physical neglect (PN) score in SCZ patients. Among HCs, the MFQ score was positively correlated with the CTQ score, as well as with the dimensions of physical abuse (PA) and emotional Neglect (EN). Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that impaired moral cognition performance was significantly predicted by the CTQ score (beta =-0.235, p =0.034, 95% CI -0.743 to -0.031) in patients with SCZ but was significantly predicted by years of education (beta =-0.392, p <0.001, 95% CI -4.783 to -1.876), alcohol use (beta =0.210, p =0.023, 95% CI 2.191 to 29.399) and the CTQ score (beta =0.184, p =0.046, 95% CI 0.019 to 1.928) in HCs. CTQ moderated the effect of SCZ on MFQ (B = 0.516); Simple tests revealed that the group effect on the MFQ was B =12.306 at the lower level(-1SD) and B = 54.089 at the higher level(+1SD) of the CTQ scores. Conclusions: SCZ patients exhibit impaired moral cognition. The contribution of CT to the presence of moral cognitive impairments seems to be independent of psychopathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A growing body of literature focuses on the role of benevolent childhood experiences (BCEs) in predicting adulthood well-being, in addition to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). However, cross-cultural differences are generally ignored in this endeavor. Hence, this study aimed to explore the role of BCEs in predicting life satisfaction, resilience, and hopelessness. We also examined the potential of resilience and the role of hopelessness in mediating the relationship between BCE and life satisfaction. Methods: A total of 850 university students from Turkey (n = 371), Portugal (n = 248), and India (n = 231), aged 17 to 58 years (M = 22.12, SD = 4.41), participated in the study. Participants completed an online protocol consisting of measures to assess BCEs, life satisfaction, resilience, and hopelessness. Results: BCEs, hopelessness, and life satisfaction have significantly differed among the samples based on the country of residence. BCEs were positively correlated to resilience and life satisfaction and negatively to hopelessness. In the sequential mediation model, after controlling for country and sex, resilience and hopelessness sequentially mediated the relationship between BCEs and life satisfaction. BCEs were associated with life satisfaction, resilience, and hopelessness across countries and sexes. The model explains 42.8% of the variability. Conclusion: Despite differences between countries, BCEs are important predictors of adult well-being in all three countries and should be monitored along with ACE. Further, resilience seems to have an important role in lowering the negative consequences of lower BCEs and feelings of hopelessness, pointing to the need to strengthen psychological resilience among adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) behaviors among adolescents with mood disorders represent a significant global public health concern. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and identify key predictors of NSSI behaviors in Chinese adolescents diagnosed with depressive or bipolar disorders, addressing a critical gap in the literature. Method: Data from 2343 participants in the Chinese Adolescent Depression Cohort (CADC) were analyzed. The study employed a comprehensive approach, utilizing medical records, clinical assessments, and validated psychometric instruments. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, logistic regression, and ROC curve analyses, culminating in the development of a predictive nomogram. Results: The prevalence of NSSI behaviors was strikingly high at 73.32%. Significant predictors included female gender (AOR = 2.14, 95% CI [1.70, 2.68]), presence of hallucinations (AOR = 1.52, 95% CI [1.18, 1.97]), borderline personality features (AOR = 1.03, 95% CI [1.01, 1.08]), and childhood trauma (AOR = 1.02, 95% CI [1.01, 1.03]). The study's key contribution is a predictive nomogram with an AUC of 0.74, demonstrating good efficacy in predicting NSSI behaviors. Conclusion: This research reveals an alarmingly high prevalence of NSSI behaviors in Chinese adolescents with mood disorders and identifies critical predictors spanning demographic, clinical, and psychometric domains. The developed nomogram offers a novel approach for risk assessment, highlighting the importance of comprehensive evaluations in adolescent mental healthcare. These findings have significant implications for developing targeted interventions and improving risk assessment strategies in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractResearch on intergenerational trauma (IGT) indicates a link between parent and offspring PTSD symptoms. Studies suggest that parents’ PTSD symptoms could contribute to harsh parenting practices, such as childhood maltreatment, in turn increasing risk for PTSD symptoms in their offspring. However, the potential mediating role of cumulative and subtypes of offspring childhood trauma in intergenerational PTSD symptom transmission, along with the impact of parental sex, remain understudied. This cross-sectional study examined whether the link between parent and offspring PTSD symptoms among survivors of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda to their offspring was mediated by cumulative and subtypes of offspring childhood trauma, and how these relationships vary by parental sex. Adult children of genocide survivors, all born after the genocide (N = 166; Mage=23.03, SD = 1.94; 47.6% female), completed an online survey. We performed a series of models investigating childhood trauma as a mediator of maternal and paternal IGT transmission. We found significant indirect effects of maternal PTSD symptoms on offspring secondary PTSD symptoms via sexual abuse and physical neglect, and of paternal PTSD symptoms on offspring secondary PTSD symptoms via cumulative childhood trauma, sexual abuse, and physical abuse. The findings demonstrate variation in IGT via childhood trauma subtypes and parental sex. Future research, including longitudinal and multi-informant studies, should examine these sources of variation further to provide insight into how interventions could be tailored to prevent and mitigate the intergenerational transmission of PTSD symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background Methods Results Conclusion Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are known contributors to lifelong mental health challenges. Despite studies linking ACEs to increased risk of adverse postpartum mental health outcomes, a systematic review on the occurrence of postpartum post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in women with ACEs is lacking.A systematic search was conducted in seven databases to retrieve studies from inception to January 31, 2024. A random‐effects model was used to quantify weighted estimates of postpartum PTSD incidence. Statistical analysis was conducted using R software.Seven studies were included in the system review. One study was identified as an outlier and excluded from the meta‐analysis. Among the six remaining studies, 1186 women exposed to ACEs were identified, with 249 of them experiencing postpartum PTSD. The estimated incidence of postpartum PTSD among women exposed to ACEs was 22.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 16.1%–29.8%). Subgroup analysis revealed significant variations in incidence depending on study settings (p < 0.01) and PTSD assessment methods (p < 0.01). Due to multicollinearity among the primary variables, a meta‐regression to identify factors influencing study heterogeneity was not conducted.The incidence of postpartum PTSD was 22.6% in women with ACEs, higher than that observed in the general obstetric population. This finding suggests the need to provide comprehensive postpartum care for these women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the effects of multiple stress events in different stages of life on the incidence of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Methods: Miners from Tangshan, China, were recruited for this study. Workers of the Kailuan Mining Group were evaluated to investigate whether exposure to Tangshan earthquakes during the fetal period in 1976. Adult life events and childhood trauma were assessed separately via the Life Event Scale and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. The subjects were physically examined and general demographic data such as waist circumference were collected. Blood samples were collected for measurement of metabolic parameters. Corticotropin releasing hormone(CRH) levels was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The subjects were divided into four groups according to their exposure to traumatic events in different stages of life: no exposure group, 1-exposure group, 2-exposures group, and 3-exposures group. The incidence of MetS, metabolic parameters and CRH levels in each of the four groups was compared. Results: In all, 626 people were enrolled; of these, 183, 262, 150, and 31 were in the no exposure, 1-exposure, 2-exposures, and 3-exposure groups, respectively. A remarkable variation in the incidence of MetS was observed among the four groups (x2 = 16.462, P <0.001). MetS incidence increased with the increasing number of traumatic events, except for in the no exposure group (17.9% in 1-exposure group, 24.7% in 2-exposure group, and 48.4% in the 3-exposure group). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that exposure to multiple stress during the fetal, childhood, and adult stages of life represent independent risk factors for developing MetS (OR =3.134, 95%CI =1.042–9.429). Smoking increased the risk of developing MetS (OR =1.809, 95%CI =1.140–2.871). Conclusions: Exposure to multiple traumatic events in distinct life stages increases the risk of developing MetS. Smoking is a risk factor for developing MetS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Musicians' dystonia (MD) is a movement disorder with several established risk factors, but the exact pathophysiology remains unknown. Recent research suggests dysfunction in sensory‐motor, basal ganglia, cerebellar, and limbic loops as potential causes. Adverse childhood experiences are also considered risk factors. Objective: This study aimed to investigate whether MD patients have experienced more childhood trauma, leading to increased stress reactivity and neural vulnerability to movement disorders. Methods: Using functional magnetic resonance imaging and the Montreal Imaging Stress Task, 40 MD patients were compared with 39 healthy musicians (HMs). Whole‐brain analysis and regions of interest analysis were performed. Parameter estimates and subjective stress levels were compared between groups and correlated with the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Results: MD patients reported significantly higher childhood trauma scores than healthy control subjects, but they did not differ in their subjective stress experiences. Stress‐related activity of limbic areas was neither found in the whole sample nor between the two groups. Instead, increased activity of visual association and temporal areas was observed, but this activation did not differ between patients and HMs. However, patients showed a tendency toward reduced precuneus activity under stress. Adverse childhood experiences were negatively correlated with precuneus, thalamus, and substantia nigra activity across all participants. Conclusions: Overall, MD patients and HMs had similar subjective and neurological reactions to stress but differed in childhood trauma experiences and precuneus activity under stress. Further research about the functional connectivity between precuneus, cerebellum, thalamus, and basal ganglia in musicians is needed. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Survivors of adverse childhood experience are at elevated risk for psychological distress. In recent years, renewed interest in psychedelic medicine has highlighted the therapeutic potential of psilocybin for those who have experienced childhood adversity. However, recreational psilocybin use remains illegal and access to approved therapies is difficult. Such use provides an opportunity to explore the therapeutic potential of psilocybin for psychological distress among people with adverse childhood experiences. Therefore, we conducted an online survey to assess interest in, acceptability of, and experiences with psilocybin. We further explored whether the association between Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire (ACEQ) scores and psychological distress was lower among those who had used psilocybin in the past three months. Results showed high levels of interest in and acceptability of psilocybin that did not differ across ACEQ scores. Results also showed that the effect of adverse childhood experiences on psychological distress was lower for people who had recently used psilocybin (p =.019). Taken together, these findings suggest that psilocybin therapy may be potentially acceptable and may feasibly help in supporting survivors of adverse childhood experiences with particularly strong benefits to those with more severe childhood adversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among teens is collected using a single informant, a parent-proxy, or teen self-report. Little is known about alignment between these approaches. Surveys were administered online to teens ages 15–17 and their parents (n = 522 dyads) using the AmeriSpeak panel. We present descriptive statistics on the prevalence and measures agreement for 18 ACEs based on teen self-report and parent-proxy report. We fit multivariable models examining associations between teen and household demographic characteristics and discordance in ACE report. Based on teen-self report and parent-proxy report, cumulative and individual ACE prevalence was overall similar. However, discordance was found in individual ACE reports within teen-parent dyads (discordance ranged: 2.9–21.2 %). Lowest agreement was among ACEs related to abuse, neglect, and violence victimization and highest among household challenges. Furthermore, parent-teen dyads with LGB+ youth (vs. heterosexual) and Black, Hispanic, and multiracial or another race (vs. White) youth were more likely to have discordant responses among several ACEs. Surveillance and programmatic efforts should consider the type of ACE and the reporter when using data to inform prevention strategies. Teen self-report for abuse, neglect, and violence victimization and community challenges ACEs are particularly important to capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic experiences in an early phase of an individual's life stand out as a highly influential risk factor for poor developmental outcomes. Studies examining poor childhood experiences revealed childhood trauma linked to a negative impact on mental health. Therefore, the objective of this study is to comprehend and investigate the subjective childhood experiences of the affected children. Methods: A qualitative approach was adopted to explore the lived experiences with their consequences. The study employed a purposeful sampling technique to choose adolescents who had encountered abuse and were capable of articulating their experiences with clarity. In-depth interviews were carried out with 18 adolescents aged 13–18 years, all from childcare homes (mean = 16, SD = 1.46). The transcriptions of these interviews were analyzed using a thematic approach. Results: The analysis indicated that the children experienced physical abuse, sexual abuse, rape, abandonment, and neglected home environment. The children took responsibility for the abuse directed toward them and were also engaged in substance use. They further reported experiencing negative effects on their behavioral functions (anger, isolation), cognitive function (difficulty in concentration, low academic performances), emotional function (fear, helplessness), social function (withdrawal, mutism), and biological function (sleeplessness, lack of appetite) due to the adverse events in their life. Perceived needs, for instance, emotional, social, and educational support and positive relationship, as well as growth from traumatic experiences were stated by the children. Conclusion: The findings of the study could have practical implications for clinicians, aiding in the understanding of low emotional expression and unexplained behavior among individuals and assisting in addressing the underlying vulnerability to facilitate their overcoming of these challenges. Additionally, it is suggested that a comprehensive strategy be used that addresses stigma, cultural values, and social norms in addition to legal issues to address the problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experience of childhood trauma is known to predict health-relevant outcomes across the lifespan. Previous reviews summarize existing knowledge of the implications of childhood trauma for health in young adults and adults more generally. The current theoretical review aims to integrate the existing literature on the relationship between childhood trauma and health-relevant outcomes specifically in college students, consolidating findings across specific health domains. Further, the following theoretical review highlights the need for more research in this area and discusses how college campuses may use the knowledge in this area of work to develop targeted interventions aimed at improving the health of college students who experienced trauma in childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood sexual abuse, especially in the context of cumulative childhood interpersonal trauma (CCIT), is associated with an increased risk of revictimization by an intimate partner among women. The aim of the present study is to examine the role of self-capacities disturbances in the association between CCIT and revictimization by an intimate partner. The sample comprised of 247 adult women survivors consulting in sex therapy. Path analyses showed an indirect effect of self-capacities disturbances in the association between CCIT and revictimization (ORs = 1.49 and 1.62), demonstrating the importance of intervening in relational and affective difficulties among women survivors to prevent the risk of revictimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Resilience is a broad and dynamic concept that can be seen as being constituted by the combination of internal factors, for example, temperament profiles, and external factors, for example, social support. This paper aimed to identify temperament profiles in help‐seeking youth exposed to adverse childhood experiences, and to investigate whether temperament (putative internal protective factor) interacts with social schemas (as proxy for the putative external protective factor social support) such that their combination is associated with (a) reduced mental health problems and (b) attenuated decrease in positive affect following daily life stressors. Methods: Self‐report questionnaires were used to measure temperament, social schemas and mental health problems. The experience sampling method was used to assess stress and positive affect (i.e., stress‐sensitivity as a potential daily life resilience mechanism). Temperament profiles were identified by latent profile analysis and regression analyses were used to examine (interaction) effects. Results: In 138 subjects, three temperament profiles were identified, that is, a moderate, volatile and persevering profile, of which the latter was negatively associated with mental health problems. Neither mental health problems nor stress sensitivity were found to be affected by the interaction between temperament and social schemas. However, positive social schemas were found to be independently associated with reduced mental health problems (b = −4.41; p = <.001) and reduced stress sensitivity (b =.10, p =.044). Conclusions: Findings are relevant for both practice and research, and contribute to improving our understanding of putative protective factor in the development of mental ill‐health, thereby further unravelling the construct of resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]