Peake, ShannonJacobsen, TrondMacias, Anthony2023-08-182023-08-182023https://hdl.handle.net/1794/2869224 pagesChildren with impairments in the development of executive function (EF) face an increased risk of developmental disorders, including autism and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, compared to typically developing children. Understanding the factors influencing child executive function (EF) is crucial for early intervention strategies. Recent studies highlight the role of parent-child interaction as a significant factor in shaping child EF. However, the impact of parent adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on the parent-child intersection and subsequent effects on child EF remains a crucial area of investigation. Adverse events and toxic stress in childhood have been associated with higher incidence of mental illness and physical health problems in individuals, as well as potential negative implications in future generations. This study sought to further examine the relationship between parent ACEs and child EF, specifically child working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibitory control. Participants of this study were primary caregivers (n = 151) and children (n = 166) recruited from an early intervention services program with suspected or diagnosed developmental delay. ACEs levels were notably high in parents of the children being assessed, however linear regressions of each of the child executive functioning tasks on parent ACEs scores were non-significant, even when controlling for both child and parent variables (e.g. child age, parent socioeconomic status). This study does not indicate that extra parenting support needs to be given to those parents with high ACEs. Rather, intervention programs should explore other possible associations to effectively support children’s development of executive function.en-USCC BY-NC-ND 4.0ACEadverse childhood experienceschild executive functionparent-child interactionThesis/Dissertation0009-0004-8397-4931