The role of gender in the structure of networks of childhood adversity

Abstract

The objective of present study is to investigate the relationship between different childhood adversities. The potential impact of early adversity on prevention programs is discussed. Data on twelve childhood adversities was collected from a representative sample of 5037 members of the general population living in a large metropolitan area. Data were analyzed through network analysis, to estimate and compare network connectivity and centrality measures by gender. Over half the respondents had been exposed to at least one adversity during their earlier developmental stage. Among adversity-exposed persons, 48.4% presented simultaneous adversities, most of which were related to ‘family dysfunction’ and ‘maltreatment’ (mean = 2.9 adversities). Women reported more adversities than men (59.0% vs. 47.6%). Although the ‘global’ network connectivity across adversities was similar in both genders, ‘regional’ distinctions in the network structure were found. While ‘neglect’ and ‘parental death’ were more important for women than men, ‘parental mental disorders’ was more important for men. Gender-related childhood adversities were clustered experiences. Adversities related to ‘early family dysfunction’ and ‘maltreatment’ were prominent features in the networks of both boys and girls. Differential preventive and intervention programs should take into account gender-related patterns of exposure and reporting patterns of early adversity.