Examining the Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences, Empathy, and Altruism Among Young Adults

Abstract

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which include incidents such as neglect and abuse, can have long-term consequences for both physical and psychological well-being throughout adulthood. According to study, people who have had negative childhood experiences frequently struggle with interpersonal skills and self-esteem, which can lead to difficulties in relationships and increased aggressive tendencies later in life. With a sample size of 150 participants, comprising 86 females and 64 males, this study looks into the relationship between Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), empathy, and altruism in young adults, with a focus on gender disparities. The Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE) questionnaire was used to measure participants’ exposure to childhood adversity. Empathy and altruistic tendencies were assessed using the Toronto Empathy Questionnaire (TEQ) and Self-Report Altruism Scale (SRAC). This study uses statistical methods, including correlation analysis and T-tests, to investigate potential relationships between Adverse childhood experiences, Empathy, and Altruism, as well as gender variations in these relationships. The study’s findings suggested that there were no substantial gender disparities in Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), but female participants displayed higher levels of Empathy. However, there were no considerable variations between genders in terms of altruistic behaviours. The study revealed a positive correlation between Empathy and Altruism, but Adverse childhood experiences showed no substantial association with either Empathy or Altruism.