Psychology: Techniques and Application

Psychology: Techniques and Application ›› 2026, Vol. 14 ›› Issue (3): 176-192.

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A Meta-Analysis of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Suicidal Behavior in Adolescents

  

  1. School of Education,Department of Psychology, China University of Geosciences
    School of Marxism, China University of Geosciences
  • Accepted:2025-12-19 Online:2026-03-02 Published:2026-03-02

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Abstract:

Previous studies have reported inconsistent findings on the association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and suicidal behavior. To clarify this relationship and examine potential moderators, a meta-analysis of 49 studies encompassing 132 effect sizes was conducted. The results indicate a significant positive association between ACEs and suicidal behavior. Threat-related adverse childhood experiences exhibited a slightly larger effect size than deprivation-related adverse childhood experiences.Among specific subtypes, emotional abuse had the strongest association with suicidal ideation. Overall, childhood adversity was positively associated with both suicidal ideation and suicide attempts. For suicidal ideation, the strength of this association varied according to the type of adversity, measurement instruments, study design, and gender, whereas age showed no moderating effect. In contrast, variability in the association with suicide attempts was explained solely by the type of adversity. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions for adolescents exposed to childhood adversity to reduce suicide risk.

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CLC Number: 

  • B849
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