The Relationship Between Childhood Maltreatment and Insomnia in Depressed Adolescents: The Mediating Role of Rumination

Abstract

Background

There exists a prevalence of insomnia in depressed adolescents. Childhood maltreatment is a major life event which may intensify its severity. However, studies on the relationship between insomnia and childhood maltreatment and the mediating role of rumination are scarce.

Methods

The study utilized a cross-sectional study design with 88 adolescents diagnosed with major depressive disorder. Childhood maltreatment, rumination, and insomnia were measured by self-reported questionnaires which included Child Psychological Abuse and Neglect Scale, Rumination Response Scale, and Insomnia Severity Index. Multiple linear regressions were employed for data analysis after controlling for confounders.

Results

Adolescents with severe childhood neglect reported higher levels of insomnia. Childhood abuse was positively associated with insomnia, but their association was insignificant. Symptom rumination and reflective pondering could indirectly mediate the association between neglect and insomnia.

Conclusion

The association between childhood maltreatment and insomnia symptoms in depressed adolescents was mediated by rumination. Collaboration with psychotherapists who are experts in psychotherapies, like cognition or mindfulness-based intervention, may be an effective way of releasing the adverse effects of childhood maltreatment on insomnia.