Work

Adverse childhood experiences and neurodevelopmental disorder traits: A nationwide cross‐sectional study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Aim: In this study, we aimed to examine the associations between adverse childhood experience (ACE) exposure, adult autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) traits in a nationwide sample, and assess links with specific symptom subdomains. Methods: = 29,268; ≥18 years) completed self-reports including the 10-item ACE questionnaire (categorized: 0, 1, 2, 3, or ≥4 ACEs), Autism-Spectrum Quotient short form, and Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale. Logistic regression models assessed associations between ACEs and positive ASD (score ≥ 7) and ADHD (score ≥ 4) screens, adjusting for demographics, health, mental distress (K6), and alcohol use. Results: Among respondents, 4.9% reported experiencing ≥4 ACEs. Positive screening rates were 11.9% for ASD traits and 7.7% for ADHD traits. ASD traits were only associated with high ACE exposure (≥4 ACEs: odds ratio [OR] 1.29, 95% confidence intervals [CIs] 1.11-1.49). ADHD traits showed a dose-response relationship starting at 1 ACE (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.00-1.31), and increased with greater exposure (≥4 ACEs: OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.45-1.98). High exposure was linked to specific ASD symptoms (e.g., social and communication difficulties) and ADHD symptoms (e.g., disorganization, task avoidance, and hyperactivity). Conclusion: ACEs were associated with adult ASD and ADHD traits and related symptom subdomains in adulthood.

Source: Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences Reports

DOI: 10.1002/pcn5.70397