Psychosocial Moderating and Mediating Factors in the Relationship Between Adversity and Mental Health in Childhood and Adolescence in Light of a Catholic Christian Anthropology: A Systematic Review

Children and adolescents exposed to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are at increased risk of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress symptoms; therefore, it is critical to understand factors that may provide either a protective buffer against or an increased risk of developing mental health problems. This systematic narrative review synthesizes and contextualizes within the Catholic Christian Meta-Model of the Person (CCMMP) the psychosocial variables that mediate or moderate the relationship between ACEs (as measured by the ACE questionnaire and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire) and depressive, anxious, and posttraumatic stress symptoms across general population samples in childhood and adolescence. Three databases were searched between January 1998 and November 2022 for peer-reviewed and quantitative studies published in English. The CCMMP framework integrates a theological, philosophical, and psychological vision of the person to interpret psychological empirical studies and to make clinical applications. Results found that protective factors to build up resilience in children and adolescents affected by ACEs include personal vocations such as fostering strong parent-child relationships and supportive peer relationships in school, appropriate emotional awareness, and expression and practice of virtuous dispositions. Empirical psychological evidence and theological and philosophical support are provided to support the CCMMP's principles. These findings help to inform interventions provided to families exposed to adverse childhood experiences.