2022 Volume 33 Issue 2 Pages 89-103
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have a long-term impact on mental health, but the consequences of parental ACEs on the next generation's psychopathology have not been fully understood. This literature review examined the relationship between parental ACEs and child psychopathology as well as the impact of pregnancy and postpartum mediators and moderators on the two variables, in light of varied study findings on the intergenerational transmission of parents' abuse experiences in childhood. Sixteen studies were included from a literature search conducted through six search engines. The association between the two variables was consistent and significant for behavior and externalizing problems but inconsistent for internalizing problems. Comparison of the present study with similar studies showed no major differences. Biological and psychosocial factors during pregnancy as well as psychological problems and parenting after childbirth were the main mediators and moderators identified. Comprehensive investigations of adversities in polyvictimization and examinations of the mediating and moderating factors are warranted both during pregnancy and after childbirth.
