Rebuilding what has been ruined: Navigating the impacts of child maltreatment for romantic relationships and friendships in emerging adulthood

Emerging adults described interpersonal challenges stemming from broken trust caused by CM and maintained by internal experiences of fear, longing, guilt, and shame. Coping through avoidance, isolation, and dominance over others further maintained distrust. However, emerging adults undertook a learning process, involving attempts to engage with others, recognize patterns of abuse, and practice behavioural changes. Future research should explore the role of chosen relationships, especially friends, in mental health interventions and efforts to foster greater social support and stronger community among emerging adults with CM.