APS
2026 APS Annual Convention · 2026
Protective Only In Lower Adversity: Hope and Gratitude Fail to Buffer Depression at High ACEs
- Michelle Kelley
Old Dominion University - Jeffrey Gabelmann
Old Dominion University - Zhanna Mizgina
Old Dominion University - William Haber
Old Dominion University - Marvin Valles
Old Dominion University
Abstract
This study examined whether gratitude moderates the association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and depression. Gratitude was linked to lower depression at low ACE levels, indicating a protective effect. However, at high ACEs levels, gratitude showed no association with depression, suggesting its buffering influence diminishes under severe early adversity.