Presenter
Abigail Nosal
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are linked to long-term health, behavioral, and relationship difficulties. This study examined associations between cumulative ACE exposure and self-reported Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) among Rhode Island young adults aged 18–25, including demographic risk factors such as pregnancy, sexual and gender identity, and race/ethnicity. Data were drawn from the Rhode Island Young Adult Survey (RIYAS), a statewide behavioral health survey conducted in 2022 and 2024 (n = 2,030). IPV was assessed using a self-report item on verbal or physical abuse or threats from a romantic partner. ACEs included abuse, neglect, household substance use, parental mental illness or incarceration, domestic violence, racial discrimination, and family instability. Overall, 75.6% of respondents reported at least one ACE, and IPV prevalence increased steadily with higher cumulative ACE exposure. Descriptive and comparative analyses examined IPV patterns across demographic groups. Pregnant young adults were nearly four times more likely to report IPV, and sexual and gender minorities were over twice as likely compared to cisgender heterosexual males. No difference was found between cisgender heterosexual males and females, while Black non-Hispanic participants had lower odds of reporting IPV than White non-Hispanic peers. Cumulative ACE exposure underscores the need for trauma-informed prevention and routine ACE and IPV screening to promote health equity.
Faculty Mentor
Samantha Rosenthal, Ph.D., M.P.H.
Academic Discipline
College of Health & Wellness
Repository Citation
Nosal, Abigail and Villa, Miriam Liz, "Childhood Adversity and Intimate Partner Violence" (2026). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 322.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/322
