Author ORCID Identifier
0009-0000-2453-8137
Defense Date
2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Marcia Winter
Second Advisor
Wendy Kliewer
Third Advisor
Youngmi Kim
Abstract
The Dimensional Model of Adversity and Psychopathology (DMAP) proposes underlying dimensions of childhood adversity – threat and deprivation – are linked to psychopathology through distinct neural mechanisms. Fear learning is an important mechanism linking the threat dimension of childhood adversity and later psychopathology, potentially represented by biases in threat appraisals. Minority stress may compound upon other stressors, potentially influencing the associations between childhood adversity and threat appraisals. This study aims to: confirm the utility of the DMAP model in a college-age sample, explore threat appraisals in relation to dimensions of childhood adversity and psychopathology, and explore the role of perceived marginalized/ minoritized identity in the relations between childhood adversity and threat appraisals.
Data were drawn from a cross-sectional study of college students recruited through Sona systems at two U.S. universities. Participants (n=499) completed a survey via Qualtrics. The threat dimension of childhood adversity was positively associated with all internalizing and externalizing scales, while the deprivation dimension was associated with some internalizing and externalizing scales. Threat appraisals mediated the relations between the threat dimension of childhood adversity and internalizing symptoms, but not externalizing symptoms. Threat appraisals did not mediate the relations between the deprivation dimension of childhood adversity and psychopathology. Self-perception of minoritized/ marginalized group membership did not moderate the relations between dimensions of childhood adversity and threat appraisals. These findings have implications for future interventions within the context of threat-related childhood adversity.
Rights
© Elizabeth Taylor
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
4-9-2026