The mediating role of depression between adverse childhood experiences and violent discipline among Chinese parents of preschool children

Background Violent discipline toward children remains common worldwide and has been linked to parents’ adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), suggesting intergenerational transmission. Parental depression may play an important role in this pathway. This study examined whether parental depression mediates the association between ACEs and violent discipline among Chinese parents of preschool children. Methods This cross-sectional study included 1,650 parents of preschool children in Tongzhou District, Beijing. Parents reported their ACEs, depressive symptoms, and use of violent discipline. Logistic regression and generalized structural equation modeling were employed to explore the relationships among ACEs, violent discipline, and depression. Results Overall, 71.9% reported using violent discipline, and 38.4% reported at least one type of ACE. Higher ACE exposure was associated with greater use of violent discipline. Parental depression was positively associated with both ACEs and violent discipline and partially mediated the association between ACEs and violent discipline, including psychological aggression, physical punishment, and severe physical punishment. Conclusions Parental ACEs were associated with violent discipline among Chinese parents of preschool children, and depression partially explained this association. These findings highlight the importance of addressing parental depression in interventions aimed at reducing violent discipline and interrupting intergenerational cycles of adversity.