From Broken Branches to New Shoots: The Role of Relational Needs and Positive Future Expectations in Low Psychological Distress Among Individuals With Childhood Maltreatment

Abstract

This study delves into the psychological effects of childhood maltreatment, focusing on how relational needs and positive future expectations affect distress levels among individuals with childhood maltreatment. Additionally, it seeks to determine the mediating role of positive future expectations in the association between relational needs satisfaction and lower psychological distress. The sample consisted of 301 participants; however, analyses were conducted with 249 participants (M = 24.09, SD = 6.23) who reported experiencing at least one type of abuse or neglect during childhood. Participants aged 18 and over were recruited through an online survey platform, shared via various social media sites. Participants completed the Revised and Expanded Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, the Relational Needs Satisfaction Scale, the Positive Future Expectations Scale and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale to assess childhood maltreatment, relational needs satisfaction, positive future expectations and psychological symptoms. The findings indicate that relational needs satisfaction and positive future expectations are negatively associated with lower psychological distress in individuals with childhood maltreatment experiences. Mediation analysis results confirm that the indirect effect of relational needs satisfaction on low psychological distress through positive future expectations is significant. Relational needs satisfaction may enhance positive future expectations and reduce the risk of psychological distress, thereby supporting psychological well-being in individuals exposed to childhood maltreatment. In this context, therapeutic approaches focusing on relational needs could be beneficial when working with individuals with traumatic experiences.