Research: Childhood Trauma and Substance Abuse
Abstract: Exposure to traumatic experiences, especially those occurring in childhood, has been linked to substance use disorders (SUDs), including abuse and dependence. SUDs are also highly comorbid with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mood-related psychopathology. Most studies examining the relationship between PTSD and SUDs have examined veteran populations or patients in substance treatment programs. The present study further examines this relationship between childhood trauma, substance use, and PTSD in a sample of urban primary care patients. While traditional psychoanalysis has been criticized as insufficient for the treatment of substance use disorder (SUD), recent progress in the field of neuro-psychoanalysis has generated new and promising hypotheses regarding its etiology. However, empirical research applying this framework has been sparse. In particular, the ?ndings underscore the Conceptualization of SUD as a disorder related to dysfunctional attachment and affect Regulation abilities especially linked to increased SADNESS and ANGER dispositions, Which mediated the relationship between SUD and traumatic childhood relationships Substance use disorders (SUD), commonly referred to as addictions, are commonly de?ned as Continuing, pathological, and compelling urges to consume one or more psychoactive substances, despite detrimental effects for oneself and others. Despite a "war on drugs", which has raged for almost 50 years with the aim of achieving a drug-free society, SUDs are still one of the most common psychiatric disorders worldwide.
Keywords: Childhood Trauma, Substance Use Disorders, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Emotional Regulation, Dysfunctional Attachment
How to Cite?: Sonia G Roche, Sebanti Chatterjee, "Research: Childhood Trauma and Substance Abuse", Volume 15 Issue 10, October 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 749-756, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR261011135427, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR261011135427