Adverse Childhood Experiences Questionnaire

What it measures

The original 10-category screening tool for adverse childhood experiences, developed from the landmark CDC-Kaiser Permanente ACE study. ACE score is a count of distinct adverse experience categories before age 18. ACE scores show a dose-response relationship with numerous adult health outcomes including depression, substance use, and cardiovascular disease.

Response format

Yes/No per category; ACE score = count of categories endorsed (0–10)

Representative items

• Did a parent or other adult in the household often swear at you, insult you, put you down, or humiliate you? (Emotional Abuse)
• Did a parent or other adult in the household often push, grab, slap, or throw something at you? (Physical Abuse)
• Did you often feel that no one in your family loved you? (Emotional Neglect)
• Were your parents ever separated or divorced? (Household Dysfunction)
• Did you live with anyone who was a problem drinker or alcoholic? (Household Dysfunction)

Usage notes & scoring

Freely available in the public domain. ACE score >=4 associated with substantially elevated risk of multiple adult health conditions. Captures exposure but not timing, severity, or chronicity — pair with CTQ-SF for more clinical detail. Contains sensitive items — ensure appropriate support and debriefing before administering.

Recommended companion scales

Citation

Felitti, V.J., Anda, R.F., Nordenberg, D., Williamson, D.F., Spitz, A.M., Edwards, V., Koss, M.P., & Marks, J.S. (1998). Relationship of childhood abuse and household dysfunction to many of the leading causes of death in adults. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 14(4), 245–258.

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