Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) have long been linked to the emergence of maladaptive daydreaming (MD) in adults. However, while ACEs do not always preclude the emergence of MD, it seems that these two variables have an inconsistent relationship. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the current family functioning moderates the relationship between the two variables. 382 Filipinos aged 22 and 30 were recruited for this study and three test instruments were used: The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire - Short Form, the Family Assessment Device, and the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale-16. The participants completed an internet-based research questionnaire. According to the findings, the likelihood of developing MD is higher in people from households with low levels of affective involvement and poorly established roles. Higher levels of emotional abuse (EA), physical abuse (PA), and sexual abuse (SA) contributed to higher levels of MD. Additionally, the outcomes supported previous research findings showing that the relationships between ACE and MD were inconsistent. Although it was demonstrated that ACE significantly influenced the development of MD, the association was weak and had limited real-world applicability. Furthermore, it was determined that current family functioning did not moderate the relationship between ACE and MD. The implications of this study lie in its potential to enhance our understanding of the complex interplay between these factors and to inform effective prevention, intervention, and support strategies for individuals and families.

Authors:
Catherine Labarda, University of Santo Tomas, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Catherine is a full-time psychometrician at Vanguard Assessments. She also contributes part-time to an independent test development and research team that works with private companies and government agencies.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

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