Unravelling the Link between Adverse Childhood Experiences, Problematic Alcohol Use, and Psychological Dating Violence among Undergraduates

Abstract

Psychological dating violence (PDV) has become increasingly prevalent among undergraduate students in recent years, leading to significant psychological distress and academic performance impairment. This surge in PDV among undergraduates highlights the need for extensive research into potential predictors and mediators. This study, conducted among undergraduates in Nigerian universities, explores the intricate web of factors contributing to PDV, with a specific focus on the mediating role of problematic alcohol use. A total of 483 participants (male= 239, female= 244) with a mean age of 21.44 years (SD=2.51) completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, and the Multidimensional Measure of Emotional Abuse Scale. Utilizing mediation analysis (via PROCESS procedures for SPSS version 3.2.01), our findings indicate that higher adverse childhood experiences was associated with both PDV perpetration and victimization. Most notably, our research reveals that problematic alcohol use acted as a mediator in this relationship. This result sheds light on the mechanisms through which early life adversities may manifest as unhealthy dating behaviours. By unravelling this complex interplay, our findings not only enhance our understanding of the dynamics between adverse childhood experiences and psychological dating violence but also emphasize the importance of targeted interventions. These interventions could address problematic alcohol use as a potential avenue for prevention and support among college students. This study offers valuable insights for practitioners, educators, and policymakers in developing comprehensive strategies to foster healthier relationships and enhance well-being that could improve better academic performance among the undergraduate population.