Childhood Adversity and Civic Engagement During Emerging Adulthood

Abstract

Purpose: Childhood adversity is linked to poorer adult health; prior research has established a reciprocal association between health and civic engagement. However, little research has examined the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and civic engagement. We examined whether ACEs are associated with civic engagement at ages 18-26 years and evaluated the potential moderating role of perceived survival expectations (PSE) (i.e., likelihood of living to age 35).

Methods: Data are from Waves I, III, and IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health. Multivariable linear regression using survey weights was used to model associations between experiencing 0, 1, 2-3, or 4+ ACEs and civic engagement (composite score) overall and by type of ACE (i.e., child maltreatment, violent victimization in the community, family member suicide, family substance abuse, divorce, household member incarceration, and family member death). An ACE by PSE interaction term was tested.

Results: Twelve thousand two hundred eighty eight participants were included. Experiencing 2-3 ACEs (β = -0.14; confidence interval [CI]: -0.23, -0.043) and 4+ ACEs (β = -0.17; CI: -0.32, -0.025) were each associated with lower civic engagement compared to experiencing no ACEs. Violent victimization (β = -0.14; CI: -0.22, -0.058) and family substance abuse (β = -0.13; CI: -0.21, -0.049) were negatively associated with civic engagement, accounting for multiple comparisons. There was no evidence of moderation by PSE.

Discussion: ACEs, particularly violent victimization in the community and family substance abuse, may shape civic development. Interventions could promote civic engagement and lessen the impact of childhood adversity on individual and community health.

Keywords: Adolescent development; Adverse childhood experiences; Civic engagement; Community participation; National longitudinal study of adolescent to adult health.