Posttraumatic Cognitions as Mediators Between Childhood Maltreatment and Poorer Mental Health Among Young Adults

Childhood maltreatment is a significant public health issue that has been linked to a myriad of negative health consequences. To further elucidate the mechanisms of this link, the present study examined maladaptive cognitions (i.e., posttraumatic cognitions related to the self and world) and mental health sequelae among a sample of young adults. Participants were 287 undergraduate students (ages 18-29 years) who completed self-report questionnaires assessing childhood maltreatment, posttraumatic cognitions, and current mental health functioning. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Findings support childhood maltreatment as an important risk factor for long-term mental health difficulties. Importantly, posttraumatic cognitions were supported as mediators in this relationship and may be useful points of intervention to mitigate mental health concerns in adulthood. © 2014 Springer International Publishing.