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Adverse Childhood Experiences: Relationship with Empathy and Alexithymia
Andreia Cerqueira1, Telma Catarina Almeida2
1Egas Moniz School of Health and Science, Instituto Universitário Egas Moniz (IUEM), LabPSI - Laboratório de Psicologia Egas Moniz, IUEM, Caparica, Portugal.
Journal of Child & Adolescent Trauma
|August 18, 2023
Summary
Childhood adversity significantly impacts adult alexithymia and empathy. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and marital status predict higher alexithymia, highlighting the need for interventions.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Social Science
Background:
- Childhood adversity is linked to alexithymia and low empathy in adults.
- Understanding this relationship is crucial for mental health.
- Existing research highlights a correlation, necessitating further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the relationship between childhood adversity and adult alexithymia and empathy.
- To develop a predictive model for alexithymia based on childhood experiences.
- To identify specific factors influencing alexithymia in adulthood.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 92 adults completed questionnaires on sociodemographics, childhood history, empathy, and alexithymia.
- Utilized the Childhood History Questionnaire, Interpersonal Reactivity Index, and Toronto Alexithymia Scale.
- Employed statistical analysis to examine relationships and predictive validity.
Main Results:
- Childhood adversity positively correlated with alexithymia.
- Childhood adversity negatively correlated with empathy.
- Marital status, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and empathic concern predicted higher alexithymia.
Conclusions:
- Childhood adversity has a lasting impact on adult emotional processing and empathy.
- Intervention programs addressing childhood adversity are essential for improving adult mental health.
- Predictive factors like ACEs and empathic concern offer targets for therapeutic strategies.
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