Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Anxiety Symptoms among Youth: The Mediating Roles of Positive Childhood Experiences and Meaning in Life

The primary aim of this current research is to delve into the mediating roles of positive childhood experiences (PCEs) and meaning in life in the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and anxiety symptoms among youth. The study sample consisted of 1,815 youth aged between 18 and 33 years (<i>M</i> = 23.21, <i>SD</i> = 8.4), comprising 1,114 women (61.4%) and 701 men. Participants were recruited using a convenience sampling method. Participants completed the ACEs Scale, PCEs, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Meaning in Life Scale. The analyses were conducted using the PROCESS macro (Model 4) for SPSS version 26, manufactured by International Business Machines Corporation (IBM). The results indicated a significant negative relationship between ACEs and PCEs, as well as between ACEs and meaning in life. On the other hand, a positive and significant relationship was found between ACEs and anxiety symptoms. In addition, according to mediation analysis, findings suggest that PCEs and meaning in life mediated the relationship between ACEs and anxiety symptoms. Furthermore, the results suggest that PCEs and meaning in life serve as protective factors in mitigating the effects of ACEs. In this context, it can be addressed that strengthening individuals' positive aspects during childhood is vital.