Date

9-25-2025

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Laura Rolen

Keywords

ACEs, anxiety, trusted adult, abuse, neglect, household dysfunction

Disciplines

Psychology

Abstract

This study investigated the relationships between the three types of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), (abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction) and adult symptoms of anxiety, according to the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale. Beyond examining the bivariate relations of each ACE type with adult anxiety, this study also investigated if having at least one supportive adult in childhood moderated the relationships. The sample consisted of 213 adults recruited online who completed an anonymous survey containing the ACE Questionnaire, the GAD-7, a question regarding the presence of a trusted adult, and demographics. Hierarchical multiple regression tested the relationships of each ACE subtype to GAD-7 anxiety and the moderating role of a trusted adult. Results found that the three ACE domains significantly predicted adult anxiety, whereas the most powerful predictor was that of abuse. Neglect and household dysfunction contributed to a lesser degree. Across models, the presence of a trusted adult had a direct protective function, reducing anxiety overall. The moderating pattern differed by domain: buffering was strongest with household dysfunction, marginal with abuse (p ≈ .08), and non-significant with neglect. The research confirms attachment theory in identifying a secure adult as an attachment figure. The research takes prior research a step further by observing a protective role by a trusted adult, requiring trauma-informed intervention.

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