Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) measurement tools among children and adolescents in the Arab world: a scoping review.

BACKGROUND

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) significantly impact long-term health, yet culturally adapted measurement tools for Arab children and adolescents remain scarce.

OBJECTIVES

This scoping review systematically mapped ACEs assessment tools used in the Arab world, identifying key instruments and gaps.

METHODS

Following Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines, six databases were searched (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science) up to August 31st, 2025, including English and Arabic studies from 22 Arab countries.

RESULTS

Of 19,714 screened records, 96 met inclusion criteria. Findings revealed diverse tools, with physical and emotional abuse most frequently assessed. Most studies were conducted in educational settings, while clinical and community contexts were underrepresented. Notably, few tools were validated or reliably adapted for Arab populations.

CONCLUSION

The review underscores the need for culturally tailored psychometrically robust ACEs measures to improve assessment accuracy and intervention relevance in the Arab world. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: Research registry reviewregistry1763.