The Impact of Childhood Trauma on Personality Correlates Among Young Adults

Abstract

This critical review synthesizes literature on the impact of childhood trauma on personality development in young adults. It examines the multifaceted relationship between childhood trauma and various personality dimensions such as attachment styles, identity formation, emotion regulation, and interpersonal functioning. The review emphasizes how early adverse experiences disrupt adaptive personality traits, leading to maladaptive behaviors. Specifically, it delves into how childhood trauma affects attachment styles, identity coherence, emotion regulation, and interpersonal skills. The analysis suggests that individuals exposed to childhood trauma may exhibit heightened emotional reactivity, difficulties in coping, and impaired social skills, increasing the risk of personality and mood disorders. Furthermore, the review discusses the implications for mental health outcomes and psychosocial functioning, highlighting the elevated risk of disorders and substance abuse among this population. It also explores potential protective factors and resilience mechanisms, advocating for trauma-informed interventions to promote healing and recovery in young adults affected by childhood trauma.