Research of the relationship between childhood traumatic experiences and interpersonal dependence level of university students (Example of a foundation university)

It is known that the effects of trauma experiences during the childhood can be life-long. The individuals who are being traumatized in the early periods of their live constitute mental traces that make them feel weak, poor and worthless. For this reason, it is thought that these individuals may develop interpersonal dependence by seeking interest and support from others. The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between childhood traumatic experiences and interpersonal dependency level (IPD). The sample of the research is composed of 733 (227 male, 506 female) students aged between 18 and 25 who are studying in the spring semester of 2018 at Çağ University. Interpersonal Dependency Scale (IDI), Childhood Trauma Questionnaire Short Form (CTQ-SF) and personal information form were used as data collection tools. Low level and a positive correlation between childhood traumatic experiences and IPD was found as a result of this study. Males and participants whose parents have low level of education have more traumatic experiences during childhood. The IPD in females is the higher than men.