Peer-reviewed article

The adverse childhood experiences—International questionnaire in clinical and at‐risk samples worldwide: A systematic review (part II)

Cecilia Serena Pace, Stefania Muzi, Guyonne Rogier, Elena Ballestracci, Ginevra Mazzola · 1 May 2024

Abstract

Abstract This systematic review aimed to (1) synthesize average means and prevalence rates of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) measured by the Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire (ACE‐IQ) in clinical and at‐risk samples; (2) discuss the ACE‐IQ prevalence and means according to participants' gender, age (both adults and <18 years old), and geographic area; (3) map relationships between ACE‐IQ scores and other outcomes; (4) detect methodological issues in studies. PRISMA guidelines were followed, searching studies in seven academic databases, including retrieval of grey literature. After screening, 23 studies were included. Results revealed the following: (1) several clinical (e.g., mood disorders and substance abuse) and at‐risk (e.g., criminal and low‐income) conditions were studied, with an average 4.93 mean and 81.74% prevalence of total ACEs; (2) there is a lack of data on males, with the prevalence of domestic violence and physical neglect being especially marked in minors, and no studies involving European and North‐American at‐risk samples; (3) ACE‐IQ scores were mostly related to substance abuse and risk‐taking behaviours; (4) major methodological issues were not‐randomized/convenience sampling techniques and a lack of methodological information on sample and procedure. In conclusion, the ACE‐IQ seems a promising tool in clinical/at‐risk samples, but more studies are needed to answer all research questions.