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Multiple Dimensions of Childhood Abuse and Neglect Prospectively Predict Poorer Adult Romantic Functioning
Madelyn H Labella1, William F Johnson1, Jodi Martin2
11 University of Minnesota, MN, USA.
Personality & Social Psychology Bulletin
|November 3, 2017
Summary
Childhood abuse and neglect negatively impact adult romantic relationships, leading to lower relational competence and increased violence. Specific abuse types and perpetrators uniquely predict these adverse outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Childhood maltreatment is a significant risk factor for adverse adult outcomes.
- Understanding the specific pathways from childhood adversity to adult relationship functioning is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively examine how various dimensions of childhood abuse and neglect predict adult romantic relationship functioning.
- To differentiate the predictors of relational competence and relational violence in adulthood.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Minnesota Longitudinal Study of Risk and Adaptation (MLSRA).
- Assessed dimensions of childhood abuse and neglect from birth to 17.5 years.
- Conducted repeated multimethod assessments of adult romantic relationship functioning from ages 20 to 32 years.
Main Results:
- Childhood abuse and neglect were associated with lower adult romantic competence and increased relational violence.
- Physical abuse, maternal perpetration, chronicity, and co-occurrence predicted lower romantic competence.
- Nonparental perpetration uniquely predicted increased relational violence.
Conclusions:
- Childhood maltreatment has lasting detrimental effects on adult romantic relationships.
- Specific characteristics of abuse and neglect differentially predict aspects of relationship functioning.
- Findings contribute to understanding the developmental antecedents of relational health and dysfunction.
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