Association of adverse childhood experiences with functional identity and impulsivity among adults: a cross-sectional study [version 2; referees: 2 approved, 1 approved with reservations]

Introduction: The present study explores the association of adverse childhood experiences with impulsivity and functional identity among Pakistani adults. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 260 Pakistani medical students aged 18 and above were approached. A consent form, a questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, and an English versions of the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) scale, Functions of Identity scale (FIS) and Barratt’s Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11) was employed in this study. All data were analyzed in SPSS v. 20. Results: A total of 122 (52.6%) of respondents had experienced at least one adverse childhood experience. Verbal, physical, sexual adverse events and poor support and affection from family were the most reported adverse events. ACE scores yielded a significantly positive association with cognitive stability, perseverance and motor impulsivity on the Barrat’s impulsivity scale. Whereas, it yielded negative association with structure and harmony subscales of the functional identity as well as cognitive complexity subscale of the impulsivity scale. Conclusions: A high proportion of Pakistani medical students reported adverse childhood experiences, which lead to impulsive behaviors and poor functional identities.