Adverse Childhood Experiences and Resilience: An Intergenerational Study on the Transmission of Trauma Coping Behaviors

• In Event: Examining Adverse Childhood Experiences, Trauma, and Criminological Theory to Understand Delinquency and Risky Behavior

Abstract

Intergenerational trauma (IGT) and resilience literature has highlighted the significance of further research on factors that distinguish survivors who are exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and go on to perpetrate the transmission of trauma onto their offspring from those who do not. The current study explores the relationships between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), intergenerational trauma (IGT), and resilience through the lens of Robert Agnew’s (1992; 2001) General Strain Theory. ACEs and IGT are repeated and chronic sources of stressors or “strains” that significantly impact childhood and adolescent neuropsychological development. This exploratory study analyzes the Kaplan Longitudinal and Multigenerational Study (KLAMS) dataset, which began collection in the early 1970s. The current study examines the connection between parent survivors of IGT and the perpetuation of ACEs onto their children. This study also explores how children cope with their transmitted IGT through various coping behaviors. Children's ACEs were confirmed to be a significant mediator across various trauma coping behaviors, as well as parental socioeconomic status. The study analyses and findings allow for potential policy suggestions and implications, which may effectively break the cycle of ACEs and IGT permanently for generations to come.

Author

• Samantha Manuel, The University of Texas at Dallas