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Published on: March 17, 2019
Childhood trauma and impulsivity. Possible relevance to suicidal behavior
1Psychiatry Service 116A, Department of Veterans Affairs, New Jersey Healthcare System, 385 Tremont Avenue, East Orange, NJ 07018, USA. Alec.Roy@med.va.gov
Summary
Childhood trauma may influence adult impulsivity. This study found a link between childhood trauma experiences and higher impulsivity scores in abstinent drug-dependent patients.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Impulsivity is a personality trait linked to various negative outcomes, including suicidal behavior.
- Social factors are recognized contributors to the development of impulsivity.
- Childhood trauma is a known risk factor for suicidal behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of childhood trauma as a determinant of adult impulsivity.
- To examine the relationship between reported childhood trauma and measured impulsivity levels.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 268 abstinent drug-dependent patients was assessed.
- Participants completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) to measure trauma history.
- The Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS) was used to assess levels of impulsivity.
Main Results:
- Significant, though small, correlations were observed between Childhood Trauma Questionnaire scores and Barratt Impulsivity Scale scores.
- These findings indicate a statistical association between adverse childhood experiences and adult impulsivity.
Conclusions:
- Childhood trauma may represent one contributing factor to the development of impulsivity in adulthood.
- Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms underlying this relationship and its clinical implications.
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