Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (Aces) and Subsequent Adult Psychopathologies Through the Lens of Attachment Theory: A Position Paper

Abstract

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are recurring incidents during childhood that hold the potential for traumatic impact and possibly lead to negative, lasting impacts on both mental and physical well-being. Ample evidence, established by longitudinal, clinical, and observational studies, shows the relationship between ACEs, such as abuse and neglect, and psychopathology in both the early years of life and in adulthood. Since ACEs are commonly reported in both clinical and general populations, it is vital to understand the mechanisms of impact and possible prevention methods. Besides biological explanations, learning theories and cognitive mediators that have been mostly used to understand the mechanisms that led to subsequent psychopathologies, emerging evidence suggests social environment and interpersonal relationships might explain the association between ACEs and subsequent psychopathology. These various models provide us with insights that the effects of ACEs on later psychological disorders are intricate and occur simultaneously. This study aims to provide a comprehensive position on how attachment theory is relevant to understand the mechanism that led to subsequent psychopathologies in individuals with ACEs. It is important to understand the role of attachment in the relationship between ACEs and psychopathology to identify potential treatment targets of prevention and intervention for individuals who experienced ACEs.