Assessing adverse childhood experiences, social, emotional, and behavioral symptoms, and subjective health complaints among Hungarian adolescents

NREM parasomnia-related behaviors and adverse childhood experiences

PURPOSE

To assess the prevalence, types, sociodemographic factors, and reported dangerous activities of sleep-related behaviors likely representing NREM parasomnia episodes, as well as their association with adverse childhood experiences in Hungary.

METHODS

Cross-sectional survey of 1000 adults (aged ≥18 years) representing the Hungarian population, using a non-probability quota sampling with a random walk method and a structured face-to-face interview. A multi-criterion weighting procedure was applied to correct bias along the main sociodemographic variables to the data available. Binary logistic regression estimated the odds of NREM parasomnia-related behaviors associated with sociodemographic factors and adverse childhood experiences.

RESULTS

The prevalence of NREM parasomnia-related behaviors was 2.7 %, and self-reported sleep-eating was 0.1 % of the population (4.6 % of parasomnia-like activities). For middle-aged adults, the odds of sleep ambulation were significantly lower than for younger adults (OR 0.3; P = 0.03). A participant's family occurrence of reported parasomnia-like activity increased their odds of having it by more than 7 times (OR 7.1; P < 0.001). Nine participants out of those 27 people reporting NREM parasomnia-related behavior episodes, reported childhood adverse experiences, increasing the odds of parasomnia-related behavior by more than six times (OR 6.2; P < 0.001) compared to those not reporting it.

CONCLUSION

This is the first population survey in Hungary on adult sleep-related behaviors likely representing NREM parasomnia episodes and the potential association with childhood traumatic events preceding them. The related dangerous behaviors call for safety measures and prevention. The significant association between adverse childhood events and NREM parasomnia-related behaviors needs further analysis.

Harsh parenting trajectories from childhood through adolescence and socioemotional competences at age 18: 2004 Pelotas Birth Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Limited research has explored the course of harsh parenting practices throughout childhood and adolescence and its impact on socioemotional competences from a longitudinal perspective. This study examined the association between harsh parenting trajectories and socioemotional competences at age 18.

METHODS

Data from the 2004 Pelotas (Brazil) Birth Cohort study, originally comprising 4231 live births, were used. Harsh parenting was measured using the parent-report version of the Parent-Child Conflict Tactics Scale at ages 6, 11, 15 and 17 years, and trajectories were identified using a group-based modelling approach. Socioemotional competences were emotion regulation, assessed by the Emotional Regulation Index for Children and Adolescents; self-esteem, measured by the self-report Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale; prosocial behaviour and peer relationship problems, both assessed by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Multivariate linear and Poisson regression models were applied to examine the effects of harsh parenting trajectories on socioemotional competences, adjusting for confounding variables.

RESULTS

We identified three trajectories: a "low harsh parenting" trajectory (49.7 %), a "moderate harsh parenting" (44.7 %), and a "high harsh parenting" trajectory (5.6 %). Compared to those belonging to the low harsh parenting trajectory group, adolescents who experienced either a moderate or high harsh parenting trajectory exhibited lower scores in emotion regulation self-esteem scales and prosocial behaviour, along with higher scores of peer relationships problems.

LIMITATIONS

Data on harsh parenting at 15 and 17 years were available only for a sub-sample.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study extends the evidence of the adverse effects of persistent harsh parenting on socioemotional competences during adolescence.

Patterns of maternal adverse childhood experiences and the intergenerational association of preschool children's emotional and behavioral problems

Introduction

Children of whose mothers exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are at increased risk for developmental problems. This study aims to investigate the relationship between types and patterns of maternal ACEs and preschool children's emotional and behavioral problems (EBPs) in China, and to explore gender differences associated with these problems.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we selected 9,647 children from 36 preschools in three cities of Anhui province, China. Questionnaires were used to report the details of maternal ACEs and children's EBPs. We used the latent class analysis (LCA) to identify "patterns" in the types of maternal ACEs. Binomial logistic regressions was performed to examine the relationship between types and patterns of maternal ACEs and preschoolers' EBPs.

Results

Latent class analysis (LCA) revealed four different classes of maternal ACEs. Logistic regression analysis showed that compared with the low ACEs class, children of mothers in the high abuse and neglect class had the highest risk of developing EBPs (OR = 5.93, 95%CI: 4.70-7.49), followed by moderate ACEs class (OR = 2.44, 95%CI: 1.98-3.00), and high household dysfunction class (OR = 2.16, 95%CI: 1.19-3.90). We found gender differences in the effects of high abuse and neglect/moderate ACEs class and maternal childhood physical abuse/neglect on children's EBPs, which had a stronger impact on EBPs in boys than girls (P<0.05).

Discussion

This study supports and refines existing research that confirms an intergenerational association between types and patterns of maternal ACEs and children's EBPs in a large Chinese sample, so as to provide references for the early prevention and control of children's EBPs.

Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety Due to Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Cross-Sectional Trial in Adolescents

BACKGROUND

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are linked to the development of anxiety in adolescence. According to recent studies, the COVID-19 pandemic represents a novel ACE that is associated with anxiety among adolescents. This study investigates the relationship between ACEs, COVID-19, and anxiety in adolescents.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a community sample of 248 boys and girls ages 12 to 15 years (mean = 13.50 years) from five high schools in Eastern Attica. A total of four questionnaires were used: (1) Demographic Questionnaire, (2) State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children-STAIC, (3) Adverse Childhood Experiences Scale, and (4) COVID-19 Impact Scale.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated a moderate association between the total number of ACEs and anxiety (trait and state) in adolescence (trait anxiety: ρ = 0.37, p < 0.001; state anxiety: ρ = 0.29, p < 0.001). Girls scored significantly higher than boys on both trait anxiety (U = 4353, p < 0.001; mean difference = 5.5) and state anxiety (U = 5822.5, p = 0.014; mean difference = 2). The number of ACEs was found to be significantly related to the impact of COVID-19 (β = 0.025, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the significant link between ACEs and increased anxiety in adolescents, which is further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings indicate that girls are more affected than boys. These results emphasize the need for targeted mental health interventions to enhance coping mechanisms, reduce stress, and address anxiety in adolescents, particularly during global crises like the pandemic. Developing such programs is essential for supporting the mental well-being of youth facing multiple stressors.

Allostasis, health, and development in Latin America

The lifespan is influenced by adverse childhood experiences that create predispositions to poor health outcomes. Here we propose an allostatic framework of childhood experiences and their impact on health across the lifespan, focusing on Latin American and Caribbean countries. This region is marked by significant social and health inequalities nested in environmental and social stressors, such as exposure to pollution, violence, and nutritional deficiencies, which critically influence current and later-life health outcomes. We review several manifestations across cognition, behavior, and the body, observed at the psychological (e.g., cognitive, socioemotional, and behavioral dysfunctions), brain (e.g., alteration of the development, structure, and function of the brain), and physiological levels (e.g., dysregulation of the body systems and damage to organs). To address the complexity of the interactions between environmental and health-related factors, we present an allostatic framework regarding the cumulative burden of environmental stressors on physiological systems (e.g., cardiovascular, metabolic, immune, and neuroendocrine) related to health across the life course. Lastly, we explore the relevance of this allostatic integrative approach in informing regional interventions and public policy recommendations. We also propose a research agenda, potentially providing detailed profiling and personalized care by assessing the social and environmental conditions. This framework could facilitate the delivery of evidence-based interventions and informed childhood-centered policy-making.

Outcomes of adverse childhood experience during late adolescence: Evidence from college and community samples

Scant studies have investigated adverse childhood experience (ACE) outcomes and mastery during adolescence in different cultural contexts. This cross-sectional study examines the impact of ACEs on subjective well-being, health complaints, and healthcare utilization during late adolescence, including the mediating role of the sense of mastery in the Saudi context. Adolescents (N = 396) aged 17-21 years were recruited via convenience sampling from colleges and local communities from two regions in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a paper-pencil anonymous survey and analyzed using path analysis. Of the sample, 85.5% experienced at least one ACE. ACEs had a direct effect on subjective well-being (p = 0.034), health complaints (p < 0.001), healthcare utilization (p < 0.001), and sense of mastery (p < 0.001). Sense of mastery had an effect on subjective well-being (p < 0.001) and health complaints (p < 0.001), but not on healthcare utilization (p = 0.436). Sense of mastery partially mediated the relationship between ACEs and subjective well-being (p = 0.034) and health complaints (p < 0.001), but not healthcare utilization (p = 0.438). ACEs have detrimental effects on adolescent health. Attention should be paid to primary prevention and early detection to avoid further harm, and interventions that address the role of the sense of mastery should be developed for adolescents.

Validity and reliability of the 10-Item Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire (ACE-10) among adolescents in the child welfare system

Introduction

Multiple evidence suggests that the vast majority of children in the Child Welfare System (CWS) are victims of early, chronic, and multiple adverse childhood experiences. However, the 10-item version of the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire (ACE-10) has never been tested in such a particularly vulnerable population as adolescents living in the CWS. We aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the ACE-10 in a community sample of 240 Hungarian adolescents placed in family style group care (FGC) setting.

Methods

Demographic data, the 10-item version of the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire (ACE-10), the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and the HBSC Bullying Measure were used.

Results

Our results showed acceptable internal consistency (α = 0.701) and item-total correlations (rpb = 0.25-0.65, p < 0.001). However, our results also reflect that item 6 ("Parental separation/divorce") is weakly correlated with both the cumulative ACE score and the rest of the questionnaire items. When item 6 is removed, the 9-item version of the ACE produces more favorable consistency results (α = 0.729). Strong and significant associations of the cumulative ACE score with emotional and behavioral symptoms and bully victimization confirm the concurrent criterion validity of both versions of the instrument.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that ACE-9 and ACE-10 are viable screening tools for adverse childhood experiences in the CWS contributing to the advancement of trauma-informed care. We recommend considering the use of either the 9-item or the 10- item version in the light of the characteristics of the surveyed population. The implications and limitations are discussed.

[Relation between adverse childhood experiences and problematic alcohol consumption in adulthood]

Alcohol use disorder and its consequences are a major public health problem not only worldwide, but in Hungary as well. The problem is aggravated by the low rate of admission to treatment, and by the high dropout rate of the treatment prior to its completion date. The relapse rate is also high, up to more than half of the patients are not able to maintain their abstinence following the first few months after their treatment. Although most patients enrolling in the addiction care system are over the age of 35, the causes of alcohol use disorder often stem from early childhood experiences. Long-term traumas in early childhood are significantly associated with somatic and mental health problems later in life such as substance use, including alcohol dependence. The article begins with reviewing the prevalence of alcohol dependence and defining childhood maltreatment and adverse childhood experiences, then discusses the effects and mechanisms of adverse childhood experiences in light of the development of alcohol use disorders in adults and their low treatment rates. The article also aims to raise awareness of the importance of trauma-focused thinking and trauma-informed approaches in the healthcare system and in planning addiction interventions and services. Orv Hetil. 2023; 164(41): 1628-1636.

UPDATED PROTOCOL: Universal school-based programmes for improving social and emotional outcomes in children aged 3-11 years: An evidence and gap map

This is the protocol for an evidence and gap map. The objective of this EGM is to identify and map all primary studies (including randomised and cluster randomised trials) and systematic reviews on universal, school-based social and emotional learning programmes for young children (3-11 years) to create a live, searchable, and publicly available evidence and gap map.

Do past and present adverse experiences impact the mental health of children? A study among children in the Juvenile Justice System in India

Background

Children in the Juvenile Justice System (JJS) in India include children who may have engaged in criminal acts and children who cannot be cared for by their families of origin for various reasons. Given the nature of the children in such circumstances, they face multiple challenges growing up. Few studies from India have systematically explored interpersonal experiences, including adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) or bullying experiences, and their effects on these children's mental health.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using standardized scales to identify the frequencies of and relationships between life experiences and current mental health outcomes (stress, well-being, and psychopathology) faced by children residing in seven child care institutions (CCIs) across two states in India.

Results

Of the 278 children who participated in the study, at least one ACE was endorsed by 86.7%, and at least one instance of bullying was experienced by 71.7%. A significant negative correlation was noted between the number of ACEs, bullying experiences, and well-being and a significant positive correlation with stress and psychopathology. Information about the family of origin was significantly associated with lower psychopathology and stress scores.

Conclusions

This study highlights the relationship between mental health outcomes, ACEs, and bullying experiences in children in the JJS in India. The study identifies the immediate and ongoing effects of these experiences on children's mental health and, thus, focuses on the need for appropriate interventions to allay the effects of these experiences.

Psychometric properties of the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire 10 item version (ACE-10) among Hungarian adolescents

Introduction

Although a number of studies have been conducted since the 1995 initiation of the ACE study to map the effects of adverse childhood experiences, few studies have examined the psychometric properties of the individual versions of the ACE questionnaire.

Aims

The Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire 10 item version (ACE-10) has only been tested in a single study in an adult population, while its applicability in a particularly vulnerable population, the adolescents, has not been investigated yet. Our present study aims to address this gap in an adolescent sample of 792 subjects from a non-representative general population.

Methods

Besides demographic data, the Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire 10 item version (ACE-10), the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and the HBSC Symptom Checklist (HBSC-SCL) were employed.

Results

Our results showed acceptable internal consistency (ɵ = 0.86, α = 0.64) and adequate internal validity (r = 0.28-0.70, p < 0.001). In addition, proper concurrent criterion validity of the questionnaire was found when tested along the SDQ and HBSC-SCL items.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that the ACE-10 is suitable for assessing intrafamilial adverse childhood experiences in adolescents.

Association of single child family with subjective health complaints in children and adolescents

The number of single-child families has been increasing across developing countries during the last decades. We aimed to examine the association between being a single child (SC) and subjective health complaints (SHCs) in Iranian children and adolescents. This study was conducted as a part of the fifth survey of a national surveillance program entitled Childhood and Adolescence Surveillance and Prevention of Adult Non-communicable disease (CASPIAN-V). This national survey included a total of 14,400 students 7-18 years and their parents from rural and urban areas in 30 provinces of Iran. Data on demographic characteristics, lifestyle variables, and SHCs were measured using the questionnaire of the World Health Organization on Global School-based Health Survey (WHO-GSHS). Multivariate logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) for the association of being an SC with SHCs. Data on 14,151 participants were available for this study, of whom 7.7% (1092) were SCs. The most frequent SHCs were irritability (37.1%, 95%CI: 36.3-37.9%), feeling nervous 32.5%, 95% CI: (31.7-33.3%), and headache 24.3%, 95%CI: (23.6-25.0% ). In the multivariate model, being an SC significantly increased the odds of dizziness [adjusted OR (95% CI): 1.37(1.08-1.72)] and backache complaint [1.22(1.01-1.47)]. The association of being an SC with other SHCs (feeling low, irritability, feeling nervous, difficulty in getting to sleep, headache, stomachache) was not statistically significant (p value > 0.05). Our results suggest that being an SC may be associated with higher odds of dizziness and backache complaints.

The Mental Health Consequences of Hurricane Matthew on Haitian Children and Youth: An Exploratory Study

Haiti has experienced many major natural disasters in the past decade that included Hurricane Matthew which led to mass damage to property, a depletion of basic resources, human fatalities and injuries, and mental health consequences that affected the poorest. The current study focused on the psychological effects of Hurricane Matthew on Haitian children and adolescents. Children display heightened depression, and PTSD symptoms in the aftermath of disasters (Hausman et al., Journal of Family Psychology 34:836-845, 2020), however, the researchers anticipated that children living in orphanages would display more severe mental health symptoms than those living with their families, because of their additional stressor of family loss. Using a convenience sample, quantitative data was collected using several instruments, in a survey format, that were individually administered to a sample of 77 adolescents. Participants had high depressive scores and reported multiple adverse events and limited access to basic needs. In comparing subgroups, we found children who were in orphanages reported significantly fewer adverse childhood experiences than those living with their families. This is likely because orphanages in Haiti consistently provide children with a safe and stable environment, buffering them against the traumatic effects of disasters. In contrast, children living with their families reported witnessing or experiencing interpersonal violence, neglect and abuse in addition to disaster-related stress. Before addressing the issues faced by disaster-affected children in Haiti, the systemic issues that maintain the socio-economic deprivation of so many citizens must be addressed. An important step is for policymakers to collaborate with mental health providers to develop community interventions that are low-cost and easily accessible. These interventions must consider and incorporate the social context and cultural patterns of help-seeking and treatment utilization in Haiti.

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Subjective Cognitive Decline in the US

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and subjective cognitive decline (SCD) among a representative sample of the adult US population.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the 2019 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (N = 82,688, ≥45 years). Adverse childhood experiences included sexual, physical/psychological and environmental ACEs, and a score. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the association between ACEs and SCD, and SCD-related outcomes.

RESULTS

Sexual (adjusted OR (aOR: 2.83; 95% CI: 2.42-3.31)), physical/psychological (aOR: 2.05; 95% CI: 1.83-2.29), and environmental (aOR: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.74-2.16) ACEs were associated with SCD in the past year. There was also a dose-response relationship between ACE score and SCD.

CONCLUSION

ACEs were associated with SCD. Interventions to maximize cognitive health in aging and prevent future cognitive impairment should consider the potential role of ACEs among affected populations.