TITLE:
Exploring Independent and Cumulative Effects of Adverse Childhood Experiences on PTSD and CPTSD: A Study in Indian Adolescents
AUTHORS:
Paulo Ferrajão, Francisco Frias, Ask Elklit
KEYWORDS:
PTSD, Complex PTSD, Comorbidity, Adverse Childhood Experiences, Adolescence
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Epidemiology,
Vol.15 No.1,
February
19,
2025
ABSTRACT: Background: Exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) is associated with a higher likelihood of developing psychological disorders among adolescents. The current study aimed to analyze the effect of independent and cumulative effects of ACEs exposure on the likelihood of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and a Complex PTSD (CPSTD) diagnosis in Indian adolescents. Methods: A sample of 411 schoolchildren participated in the study. It was collected data on exposure to ACEs, PTSD, CPTSD, and attachment styles. Results: It was found that exposure to bullying and threats of violence was significantly associated with PTSD and CPTSD diagnosis, and exposure to physical violence and serious illness was associated with CPTSD diagnosis. Exposure to one ACE and exposure to 2 - 3 ACEs were associated with PTSD and CPTSD diagnosis, while exposure to 4 - 5 ACEs was associated with CPTSD diagnosis. Preoccupied and fearful attachment styles were significantly associated with PTSD and CPTSD diagnosis. Conclusion: The results of the study suggest that biological, psychological, and social factors interact and contribute to the differential prevalence of ACE, attachment styles, and PTSD/CPTSD. This study emphasizes the need of addressing childhood trauma as a public health priority in India.