Adverse Childhood Experiences and Problematic Media Use: The
Roles of Attachment and Impulsivity
Howearlyadversitymayleadtoproblematicmediausedirectly andindirectlythroughitsimpacton
ATTACHMENT
STUDY FINDINGS
Those with more early adversity problematic media use had more
Those with higher anxious attachment problematic media use showed more
Higher levels of impulsivity were problematic media use associated with more
Early adversity may lead to problematic media use
Problematic Media Use
Using devices in such a way that it interferes with important daily living activities
Early Adversity
Traumatic events such as sexual physical or emotional abuse that can have negative and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being
DIRECTLY INDIRECTLY through its influence on attachment and inpulsivity
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Childhood adversity can influence problematic media use in adulthood
Attachment insecurity and impulsivity play significant roles in explaining the relationship between early adversity and problematic media use
Children with attachment insecurity and impulsivity may be at higher risk of problematic media use as a coping strategy
Early intervention promoting secure attachment and positive coping strategies can be helpful in reducing reliance on media
Childhood experiences can have a lasting pact on media use habits in adulthood derstanding the role of attachment and impulsivity is crucial in addressing blematic media use in this population.
Dr Amanda Hiles Howard, Meredith Morgan & Martha Hardin
