The association between adverse childhood experiences and young adult outcomes: A scoping study

Study aims: This scoping study presents the current status of evidence for young adult outcomes associated with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and identifies knowledge gaps in the literature. Methods: Articles were eligible for review if they were published in peer-reviewed journals between 2010 and 2020, were written in English, and reported original empirical research on the impact of ACEs on young adults ages 18–25. Forty-two articles were selected for full review. Results: Most ACEs instruments included categories of child abuse and family dysfunction; events that occurred in the child's social environment were less likely to be considered. Prevalence of ACEs varied widely across studies. Prominent young adult outcomes associated with ACEs were mental health problems and substance use. Approximately one third of the reviewed studies examined either mediators or moderators in the relationship between ACEs and young adult outcomes. Conclusion: It is important to obtain clear consensus on the conceptual meaning and components of ACEs. Future studies employing various research methods, such as a longitudinal design, mixed methods, or complex path models, may enhance understanding of how ACEs impact young adult outcomes and what factors might play a role in these relationships.