Effects of childhood trauma on executive function, impulsivity, rumination and worry: An umbrella review.
Neurosci Biobehav RevJun 19, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPsychiatry
Sophie Höfels, Ellen Frost, Andrew Prestwich et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This umbrella review examined the impact of childhood trauma on executive function, impulsivity, and perseverative cognition in a population of 639 unique primary studies. The review found a negative association between childhood trauma and cognitive function, particularly in working memory and processing speed, highlighting the enduring effects of trauma on these transdiagnostic risk factors.
Key findings
- 73% of reviews focused on executive function, showing a negative association with childhood trauma.
- Working memory and processing speed were identified as particularly affected cognitive domains.
- Positive associations were consistently reported between childhood trauma and impulsivity and perseverative cognition.
Why it matters
Understanding the relationship between childhood trauma and cognitive impairments is crucial for developing targeted interventions. Clinicians can use this knowledge to address modifiable risk factors and improve health outcomes in affected individuals.