Beyond tears: The predictive role of adverse childhood experiences and complex trauma in male depression within the Chinese cultural context.

Abstract

This study primarily explores the association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and depression symptoms in Taiwanese men, while also examining mediating effect of complex trauma (CT). We categorize male depression into two forms-the internalizing and externalizing forms of depressive symptoms (IFDS and EFDS). The mediating model of the two male depression types may vary in Taiwanese men. Using a questionnaire survey method, 338 adult Taiwanese men aged 18-60 were recruited for the study, of whom 128 (37.87%) reported experiencing childhood trauma. The research instruments included the Taiwanese version of the ACE Questionnaire with 10 items, the Male Depression Risk Scale, the Taiwan Depression Scale, and the Complex Trauma Inventory (CTI). The results indicated that the total scores of ACEs were significantly associated with both IFDS and EFDS in a sample of 338 men. Among different types of ACEs, emotional neglect and mental illness in the household were significantly associated with male depression. Further, a subsample of 128 males who reported experiencing childhood traumatic events was used to examine the mediation model. In the correlation between ACEs and IFDS, CT exhibited a complete mediating effect. In the correlation between ACEs and EFDS, CT only demonstrated a partial mediating effect, while ACEs still showed a direct correlation with EFDS. These results suggest that male depression symptoms may be a traumatic response to childhood adversities under the influence of clan familism in Taiwan. Overall, this study aims to expand the understanding of male depression in both etiology and clinical practices. Public Significance StatementThis study identifies a link between male depression symptoms and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Male depression could be an extension of complex trauma symptoms. The research also indicates a more direct link between ACEs and externalizing forms of depressive symptoms.