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Adverse Childhood Experiences and Problematic Media Use: The Roles of Attachment and Impulsivity THIS STUDY LOOKED AT: How early adversity may lead to problematic media use directly and indirectly through its impact on
&
ATTACHMENT
THIS STUDY INCLUDED:
616
ADULTS
RESIDING IN THE
IMPULSIVITY
BETWEEN THE AGES OF
United States 19-57
KEY CONSTRUCTS
Problematic Media Use
STUDY FINDINGS
Using devices in such a way that it interferes with important daily living activities
Those with more early adversity
had more problematic media use.
Early Adversity
Those with higher anxious attachment
Traumatic events, such as sexual, physical, or emotional abuse, that can have negative and long-term effects on an individual’s well-being
showed more problematic media use.
Higher levels of impulsivity were
associated with more problematic media use.
Early adversity may lead to problematic media use
&
DIRECTLY
through its influence on attachment and inpulsivity.
Anxious attachment
Impulsivity
Adverse childhood experiences
Problematic technology use
INDIRECTLY
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 impact on media use habits in adulthood. Understanding the role of attachment and impulsivity is crucial in addressing problematic media use in this population.
Based on research by Dr. Nicole Wilke, Dr. Amanda Hiles Howard, Meredith Morgan & Martha Hardin