Psychology ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 6-27-2025

Abstract

Young adults aged 18-25 have the highest prevalence of mental health issues compared to adults over age 25. Mental health outcomes during emerging adulthood may be linked to early childhood variables, such as attachment, grounded in early caregiving, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) (Hughes et al., 2017; Waters & Roisman, 2019). The current study examined relationships between the attachment script assessment (ASA), a measure intended to elicit secure base script knowledge, indicative of secure attachment state of mind, ACEs, and mental health outcomes among a diverse sample of college students aged 18 to 25. Although results did not indicate relationships between ASA and ACEs or mental health outcomes, strong and consistent relationships were found between ACEs and adverse mental health outcomes. Emerging adults with a greater number of adverse childhood experiences reported poorer mental health across depression, anxiety, and alcohol/substance use. Implications, strengths, limitations, and future directions are discussed.

Degree Name

Psychology

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Psychology

First Committee Member (Chair)

Sarah Erickson, PhD

Second Committee Member

Alexandra Davis, PhD

Third Committee Member

Bruce Smith, PhD

Fourth Committee Member

Davood Tofighi, PhD

Language

English

Keywords

emerging adulthood, adverse childhood experiences, mental health, attachment

Document Type

Dissertation

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