Impact of childhood trauma and parental socialization on at-risk mental state in non-clinical adolescents

BACKGROUND Childhood trauma and parental socialization have been postulated as environmental factors of at-risk mental state (ARMS). Parental socialization is the process through which parents shape children’s self-regulation by providing guidance and protection. Although the impact of trauma on ARMS has been theorized, its clinical implications have not yet been fully clarified in adolescence, nor have explanatory models of parenting styles been established. AIM To investigate the role of traumatic experiences in the appearance of ARMS in the general adolescent population, considering the influence of parental socialization. METHODS A cross-sectional study of 697 adolescents aged 11-15 years was conducted, during which several questionnaires assessing childhood trauma, psychotic symptoms, and parenting styles were administered. The sample was divided into control, low-risk, medium-risk, and high-risk groups. RESULTS Some 2.8% (n = 19) of the adolescents presented ARMS and the presence of childhood trauma was associated with an increased risk of ARMS. Furthermore, the presence of abuse was greater in the high-risk and low-risk groups compared to controls. Regarding parental socialization, it was determined that a family socialization style based on greater affection–communication decreased the probability of ARMS. Finally, using PROCESS model 1 (regression-based path analysis that uses ordinary least squares regression), results suggested that low levels of affection and communication may mediate the relationship between childhood trauma and ARMS in adolescents. CONCLUSION These results highlight the importance of the early detection of trauma in preventing ARMS, without forgetting the importance of socialization styles.