Dyadic links between adverse childhood experiences, mindfulness, and relationship quality in a diverse sample of couples
Research Report:
Research SummaryAPA Citation:
Cooper, E., Adler-Baeder, F., & McGill, J. (2024). Dyadic links between adverse childhood experiences, mindfulness, and relationship quality in a diverse sample of couples. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/02654075231226378
Abstract Created by REACH:
Informed by a risk and resiliency framework, this study explored whether a history of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs; i.e., experiences of neglect, abuse, and other household challenges) and trait mindfulness (i.e., awareness and nonjudgement of the present moment) were associated with one’s own and one’s partner’s relationship quality. In a sample of 801 heterosexual, civilian couples, men and women self-reported their ACEs, general levels of mindful awareness, and relationship quality. ACEs and mindfulness were both associated with relationship quality, but the protective role of mindfulness appeared to be stronger than the harmful role of ACEs.
Focus:
Couples
Trauma
Mental health
Subject Affiliation:
Civilian
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Methodology:
Cross-Sectional Study
Quantitative Study
Secondary Analysis
Authors:
Cooper, Erin, Adler-Baeder, Francesca, McGill, Julianne
Abstract:
Emerging research finds negative implications of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) for individual relational outcomes. The current study advanced these explorations by utilizing a risk and resilience approach, as well as a family systems framework that considers couple dynamics. We tested the concurrent dyadic links among (ACEs), mindfulness, and relationship quality in a racially and economically diverse sample of different-gender couples (N = 801). Results from actor-partner interdependence models indicate men’s and women’s ACEs were associated with their own lower relationship functioning as expected. Further, men’s ACEs were associated with women’s lower relationship functioning. Importantly, men’s and women’s mindfulness level were each uniquely and positively associated with their own and their partner’s relationship functioning. Comparatively, the links between mindfulness and one’s own and their partner’s relationship functioning were stronger than the links between ACEs and relationship quality. Suggestions for research and practice are provided.
Publication Type:
Article
REACH Publication
Featured Research
Keywords:
childhood experiences, relationship quality, risk and resilience
REACH Publication Type:
Research Summary
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