Adverse childhood experiences and interpersonal functioning in adulthood: A systemic review

Background

There is substantial research linking adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to negative health and wellbeing outcomes in adulthood, with a dose-response relationship often indicated. The impact of ACEs on adult interpersonal functioning remains comparatively underexplored. Social connections are suggested to hold a central role in building resilience and the management of psychological distress. Understanding the relationship between ACEs and adult interpersonal dynamics is therefore important for the development of effective supports for those with histories of adversity.

Objective

This study aimed to review the quantitative and mixed-methods literature on the impact of cumulative ACEs, as measured by the ACEs questionnaire, on interpersonal functioning in adulthood.

Method

A systematic search using the PRISMA guidelines was conducted across five databases. This search resulted in 9054 studies, 26 of which met predetermined inclusion criteria. Study quality was assessed using the MMAT.

Results

The included studies were grouped according to their focus: (1) intimate relationships, (2) familial relationships, and (3) unspecified relationships. Greater exposure to ACEs had a deleterious effect on many aspects of interpersonal functioning across all three categories. Difficulties were identified in the areas of communication, conflict management, and supportive relationships. An ACEs associated risk of perpetrating interpersonal harm was also indicated. Some studies reported factors that may mediate the impact of ACEs on interpersonal functioning, such as positive experiences, gender, PTSD symptoms, and social support.

Conclusion

In line with the established literature on ACEs and health and mental health, the findings of this review suggest that cumulative ACEs lead to greater interpersonal difficulties. Future research would do well to focus on the subtleties of everyday interpersonal functioning to add to the existing knowledge of ACEs-associated interpersonal risk.