Intra- and extra-familial adverse childhood experiences and a history of childhood psychosomatic disorders among Japanese university students

2007

Adverse Childhood Experiences and Psychosomatic Disorders in Japanese University Students

Sample size: 1592 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Masuda Akinori, Yamanaka Takao, Hirakawa Tadatoshi, Koga Yasuyuki, Minomo Ryosuke, Munemoto Takao, Tei Chuwa

Primary Institution: Masuda Clinic

Hypothesis

The study examines the relationship between intra- and extra-familial adverse childhood experiences and the risk of psychosomatic disorders in adolescents.

Conclusion

Intra- and extra-familial adverse childhood experiences are associated with the development of psychosomatic disorders in Japanese university students.

Supporting Evidence

14.8% of respondents had been hospitalized for psychosomatic disorders.
Emotional abuse and illness in the household significantly increased the risk of psychosomatic disorders.
Students with 3 or more intra-familial ACEs had a 3.0 relative risk for psychosomatic disorders.

Takeaway

Kids who have bad experiences at home or school are more likely to have health problems that are not just physical, like stomach aches or headaches.

Methodology

A retrospective cohort study using a survey of 1592 Japanese university students about their adverse childhood experiences and psychosomatic disorders.