Self-Stigma of Help-Seeking After Adverse Childhood Experiences: Event Centrality and Posttraumatic Cognitions

Abstract

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), including childhood abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction, are commonly reported; however, further research is needed to explore the psychological mechanisms that may contribute to self-stigma surrounding help-seeking among individuals with ACEs. To address this gap, this study investigated the relationship between ACEs and self-stigma of help-seeking (SSOHS), focusing on the mediating roles of event centrality and posttraumatic beliefs. A total of 369 adults with at least one ACE completed measures assessing event centrality, posttraumatic beliefs, SSOHS, and ACEs, and the data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Results revealed that the overall number of ACEs indirectly influenced SSOHS through event centrality and posttraumatic beliefs (β = 0.196, p < 0.001). These findings highlight the importance of implementing trauma-informed, evidence-based counseling interventions and prevention efforts to reduce the impact of trauma and beliefs, thereby encouraging help-seeking among individuals with ACEs.