ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES AND PROBLEMATIC MEDIA USE: THE ROLES OF ATTACHMENT AND IMPULSIVITY

Main Question

Is the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and problematic media use mediated by attachment and impulsivity?

In other words, is there a connecting link between them?

Main Findings

Avoidant attachment was associated with less problematic media use and anxious attachment was associated with more problematic media use.

Other Details

Population: Adults with a history of adversity

Sample Size: 616

Study Type: Cross Sectional

The Bottom Line

People with histories of trauma might have trouble regulating their use screen media. Having a secure attachment figure may help them to regulate their media use

NOW WHAT?

These findings highlight the importance of prevention and intervention efforts focusing on aiding individuals with a history of ACEs in learning positive coping strategies to help reduce their reliance on media

Further, when working with an individual with problematic media use, clinicians should consider approaches focused on self-regulation, as impulsivity may be an underlying cause that leads to excessive media use.