A QUANTITATIVE STUDY OF ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES AND MENTAL HEALTH AMONG KLANG VALLEY YOUTHS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55197/qjssh.v6i5.834Keywords:
adverse childhood experiences, mental health, youth, Klang Valley, MalaysiaAbstract
This research investigates the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and mental health among youths in Klang Valley, Malaysia. ACEs, including various forms of abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction, are known to have lasting effects on psychological well-being. This study assesses the prevalence of ACEs among youths in Klang Valley and examines their contribution to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems. Data were collected from 200 respondents aged 15 to 24 years through structured questionnaires using a cross-sectional design. The questionnaire included 10 items from Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire (ACE-Q) and 12 items from the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). The questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms using purposive sampling. The findings revealed that there is a significant moderate-to-strong positive relationship between ACEs and mental health among youths. These results underline the need for early intervention programs and supportive policies to mitigate the negative impacts of ACEs on young individuals. By illuminating the specific dynamics within the Klang Valley context, this research contributes to developing targeted mental health strategies and promoting resilience among affected youths.
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Copyright (c) 2025 SITI NUR FADILAH KASSIM, AMIRAH BALQIS NORHISAM, FARAH NUR ADLINA MOHAMAD YAZID, KISHANTINI RAJENDRAN, NOR SYAHDINA MOHD ZAHURIN, NUR MUNEERAH KASIM, THILAAGHESWARY THANGADURAI, RASHIDIN IDRIS
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