The Impact of Childhood Emotional Neglect on Emotional Functioning in Adults With PTSD - A Narrative Review

Background: Childhood emotional neglect is a pervasive yet often underrecognized form of developmental trauma associated with long-term impairments in emotional and interpersonal functioning. Theoretical and empirical literature suggests that early emotional deprivation contributes to difficulties in emotion regulation, insecure attachment, and increased vulnerability to psychopathology, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. However, the mechanisms linking emotional neglect to adult emotional dysfunction remain insufficiently integrated within existing research. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes findings from seminal theoretical works and empirical studies on childhood emotional neglect, attachment development, emotional regulation, and PTSD. Literature was identified through major academic databases, including peer-reviewed journal articles, clinical handbooks, and foundational texts. Key assessment tools commonly referenced in the literature include the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (Bernstein & Fink, 1998), the PTSD Diagnostic Scale (Foa et al., 1997), and the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (Gratz & Roemer, 2004). A thematic synthesis approach was used to integrate findings across studies. Results: The reviewed literature consistently indicates that childhood emotional neglect is strongly associated with emotional dysregulation, insecure attachment patterns, and increased PTSD symptom severity. Studies also highlight neurodevelopmental disruptions in stress-response systems and persistent maladaptive self-beliefs, such as shame and low self-worth, which contribute to chronic emotional difficulties in adulthood. Conclusions: Childhood emotional neglect represents a critical developmental risk factor for long-term emotional dysfunction and PTSD. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating attachment-based and emotion-focused approaches in trauma-informed care and highlight the need for further research to clarify underlying mechanisms and protective factors.