Mechanisms and modifying factors affecting the impact of adverse childhood experiences on executive function
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Context and relevance. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are potentially traumatic events that occur early in life, such as violence, neglect, accidents, and injuries. These experiences are highly prevalent worldwide and are associated with several physical and mental health problems, resulting in substantial economic burden. More recently, research has demonstrated associations between ACEs and cognitive impairments, including deficits in executive function (EF), which may contribute to these outcomes. Objective. The purpose of this essay is to provide an overview of research on physiological, psychological, and environmental factors that may underlie, strengthen, or buffer the associations between ACEs and EF. Biological Mechanisms. The literature reveals that ACEs are associated with structural and functional changes in regions of the brain associated with EF. These changes are due, at least in part, to physiological stress resulting from exposure to ACEs. Risk and Protective Factors. Several psychological and environmental factors that affect the impact of ACEs on EF have been identified. ACEs are known to be associated with greater risk for psychopathology, including internalizing symptoms, dissociation, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These symptoms, in turn, cause executive dysfunction. Environmental factors—such as poverty and the quality and timing of caregiving—can also influence an individual’s susceptibility to the impacts of ACEs. Conclusions. This essay provides a brief overview of evidence linking exposure to ACEs and impaired EF. In addition to the biological underpinnings, factors that may alter the effects of these early experiences are outlined, highlighting the complexity in understanding this association.
Authors: M.T. Hyland, K.E. Crabb, D.Y. Amarneh
Institution: University of Houston
Language: English
Topic: Child Abuse and Trauma
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4414859010