Linkage of Mother's Childhood Adversity Experience and the Intergenerational Transmission of Parenting Violations: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Background: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are a crucial topic in family psychology because they have been linked to various negative outcomes later in life, such as mental health problems, substance abuse, and relationship issues. However, comprehensive research to assess how mother’s childhood adversity experience may influence the intergenerational trauma or transmission is urgently needed. The study focuses on how a mother's past adversity can impact her parenting behavior and contribute to the perpetuation of violations patterns across generations. Aims: This systematic literature review aims to critically assess the linkage of a mother's childhood adversity experience with the intergenerational transmission of parenting violations. Method: The authors searched for relevant publications using the primary databases JSTOR, Scopus, and ProQuest, and applied the SPIDER framework to establish the eligibility criteria. The studies that were incorporated into the analysis examined how mothers' ACEs are associated with the transfer of trauma to their parenting across generations, without imposing any age restrictions on the study participants. To assess the quality of the chosen literature, the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal checklist was used. A meta-synthesis was then carried out to collect data that could be compared or merged. Result: Thirteen (13) studies met the eligibility criteria. The results found association between maternal ACEs and their parenting violation, classified of ACEs experience, as well as describe the influence into the children development (e.g. academic performance) Conclusion: The findings of this systematic literature review highlight the significant impact of a mother's adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on the intergenerational transmission of parenting violations and their effects on child outcomes.