Date of Conferral
5-22-2025
Date of Award
May 2025
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Psychology
Advisor
Magy Martin
Abstract
Childhood adversity is a known predictor of poor psychological outcomes in adulthood, yet little is known about this relationship among Hispanic adults in South Texas. This study examined whether adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and whether gender, marital status, or educational attainment moderate this relationship. The central research questions were: (1) What is the relationship between ACEs and PTSD symptoms among Hispanic adults in South Texas? and (2) Do gender, marital status, or education moderate this relationship? Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, this quantitative archival study used a non-experimental, correlational design. Linear regression analysis of data from 109 adult clients at a private practice in the Rio Grande Valley revealed a significant positive association between ACEs and PTSD symptoms. Gender significantly moderated this relationship, with a stronger association observed among women. Marital status and education were not significant moderators. Findings suggest sociocultural gender roles may shape trauma responses more than other demographic factors. Recommendations include gender-informed, culturally responsive trauma care and routine ACE screening in Hispanic-serving clinical settings. This study supports positive social change by promoting equity in trauma prevention and care through culturally appropriate, gender-responsive approaches.
Recommended Citation
Hollinger, Timothy, "The Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Posttraumatic Symptomology in Rio Grande Valley Hispanic Adults" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 17852.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/17852
