Childhood predictive and protective factors of adult substance abuse

Abstract

Psychological abuse in childhood is believed to have an affect on psychological wellbeing in adulthood, specifically in the area of substance abuse. Following the lead of studies in psychological abuse, substance abuse and protective factors, the present study examined the relationship between childhood psychological abuse and adult substance use, along with the role of protective factors in that relationship. Participants, consisting of college undergraduates, completed a series of measures of family cohesion, bonding, substance use, and psychological maltreatment. Although results did not show a relationship between childhood psychological abuse and adult substance abuse, family cohesion was shown to be related to lower instances of psychological abuse and alcohol use. In addition, bonding was also found to be related to lower instances of psychological abuse. Gender differences were found, with males reporting higher levels of substance use and psychological abuse, while females reported higher levels of bonding. In addition to the experimental results, theoretical and research implications are discussed.

Date of Award	2005
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Anu Sharma (Supervisor)