INVESTIGATING THE INTERRELATIONSHIP AMONG ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES, ATTACHMENT STYLES AND ADULT VIOLENCE IN ADULTS FROM CONFLICT-AFFECTED AREAS OF KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA

Abstract

The study aimed to examine the relationships between Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Attachment Styles, and Adult Violence (AV), with a focus on gender differences. The objectives were to explore how different dimensions of ACEs (Conventional and Expanded) correlate with Attachment Styles (Close, Depend, Anxious) and AV, as well as to investigate gender differences across these variables. The study hypothesized that there would be significant positive correlations between ACEs and insecure attachment styles, as well as between ACEs and adult violence. Additionally, it was hypothesized that males would report higher levels of ACEs and violent tendencies compared to females. Using a correlational, cross-sectional design, data were collected from 517 adults (264 males and 253 females) in conflict-affected tribal areas of Pakistan. The Philadelphia Adverse Childhood Experiences Scale, Revised Adult Attachment Scale, and Attitudes Toward Violence Scale were employed to measure the key variables. Results revealed strong positive correlations between ACEs and insecure attachment styles, suggesting that individuals with higher childhood adversity are more likely to exhibit insecure attachment patterns in adulthood. Furthermore, ACEs were significantly associated with increased adult violence, particularly in forms such as Corporal Punishment and Partner Violence. Gender differences were observed, with males reporting higher levels of ACEs, anxious attachment, and violent tendencies compared to females.