Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences, Cognitive Distortions, and Delinquency in a Youth Community Sample

This study examined the mediating role of self-serving cognitive distortions in the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and delinquent behavior. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 217 participants aged 16 to 22, recruited from diverse settings, including schools, workplaces, and recreational institutions. Participants completed a questionnaire assessing ACEs, delinquent behavior, and self-serving cognitive distortions. The findings revealed that self-serving cognitive distortions significantly mediated the relationship between ACEs and delinquent behavior, across both violent and non-violent offenses. These results underscore the importance of addressing self-serving cognitive distortions within interventions and prevention programs targeting youth with histories of childhood victimization.