Abstract
Introduction: The present study explores the association of adverse childhood experiences with impulsivity and functional identity among Pakistani adults. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 260 Pakistani medical students aged 18 and above were approached. A consent form, a questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, and an English versions of the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) scale, Functions of Identity scale (FIS) and Barratt's Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) was employed in this study. All data were analyzed in SPSS v. 20. Results: A total of 122 (52.6%) of respondents had experienced at least one adverse childhood experience. Verbal, physical, sexual adverse events and poor support and affection from family were the most reported adverse events. ACE scores yielded a significantly positive association with cognitive stability, perseverance and motor impulsivity on the Barrat's impulsivity scale. Whereas, it yielded negative association with structure and harmony subscales of the functional identity as well as cognitive complexity subscale of the impulsivity scale. Conclusions: A high proportion of Pakistani medical students reported adverse childhood experiences, which lead to impulsive behaviors and poor functional identities.
Highlights
The present study explores the association of adverse childhood experiences with impulsivity and functional identity among Pakistani adults
There is abundant data exploring the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences in higher income countries, in low and middle income countries (LAMI) data is more scarce[2] a paucity of data has been identified in the LAMI, necessitating the need to transculturally translate the impact of adverse childhood events (ACEs) on social, cognitive and emotional impairment and adoption of high risk behaviors[3]
To address the gaps in scientific literature, the present study explores the association of adverse childhood experiences with demographics, subsequent impulsivity and functional identity among Pakistani adults
Summary
The present study explores the association of adverse childhood experiences with impulsivity and functional identity among Pakistani adults. Previous studies demonstrate a significant relationship between experience of abuse and physical, behavioral and social problems among the youth[1]. There is abundant data exploring the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences in higher income countries, in low and middle income countries (LAMI) data is more scarce[2] a paucity of data has been identified in the LAMI, necessitating the need to transculturally translate the impact of adverse childhood events (ACEs) on social, cognitive and emotional impairment and adoption of high risk behaviors[3]. Childhood emotional mistreatment; emotionally abusive acts, has been found to be associated with increased odds of lifetime diagnoses of several mental disorders[4]. In mental health disorders especially substance use disorders, superimposition of the behavioral aftermaths of ACEs on impulsivity potentiate the risk of alcohol abuse by many folds[8]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
