Childhood adversity, such as abuse, neglect, or exposure to violence, has long been linked to lasting impacts on mental health and personality. However, researchers are just beginning to explore how the timing of adversity (e.g., early childhood vs. later childhood) might differentially shape development. Emerging theories suggest that certain developmental periods may be especially sensitive to environmental stressors, which can influence core aspects of personality, including emotional regulation, impulsivity, and interpersonal functioning.

 

This study aims to take a deeper look at these issues by examining how the age of onset of adversity relates to a broad range of adult personality traits and psychological outcomes.