Ace Score Calculator

Answer the following questions about your childhood experiences. Each "Yes" answer adds one point to your ACE score.

1. Did a parent or other adult in the household often or very often swear at you, insult you, put you down, or humiliate you? OR Did a parent or other adult in the household often or very often act in a way that made you afraid that you might be physically hurt? Yes

2. Did a parent or other adult in the household often or very often push, grab, slap, or throw something at you? OR Ever hit you so hard that you had marks or were injured? Yes

3. Did an adult or person at least 5 years older than you ever touch or fondle you or have you touch or fondle them or have sex with you? Yes

4. Did you often or very often feel that no one in your family loved you or thought you were important or that your family didn't look out for each other? Yes

5. Did you often or very often feel that you didn't have enough to eat, had to wear dirty clothes, or had no one to protect you? OR Your parents were too drunk or high to take care of you or take you to the doctor if you needed it? Yes

6. Was your mother or stepmother often or very often pushed, grabbed, slapped, or had something thrown at her by your father or stepfather? OR Ever hit so hard that she had marks or was injured? Yes

7. Did you live with anyone who was a problem drinker or drug user or who often got drunk or high? Yes

8. Did a household member often or very often seem to be depressed or mentally ill or attempt suicide? Yes

9. Did either of your parents ever divorce or separate? Yes

10. Was a household member incarcerated (in jail or prison)? Yes

Your ACE Score: 0

Understanding Your ACE Score: A Guide to Adverse Childhood Experiences

The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study is one of the largest investigations ever conducted to assess associations between childhood maltreatment and later-life health and well-being. Developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kaiser Permanente, the study revealed a profound connection between early trauma and a wide range of physical and mental health problems in adulthood.

What is an ACE Score?

Your ACE score is a simple tally of different types of trauma you may have experienced before the age of 18. The original ACE Study identified 10 specific categories of adverse experiences, each contributing one point to your score. These categories fall into three main areas:

Abuse: Physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Neglect: Physical and emotional neglect.
Household Dysfunction: Parental separation or divorce, domestic violence, household member with mental illness, household member with substance abuse issues, or an incarcerated household member.

The ACE Score Calculator above helps you determine your score by answering "Yes" or "No" to questions related to these 10 categories. Your score can range from 0 to 10.

Why is Your ACE Score Important?

Research from the ACE Study and subsequent investigations has shown a strong, dose-response relationship between ACEs and various negative outcomes. This means that as your ACE score increases, so does your risk for:

Physical Health Problems: Chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and obesity.
Mental Health Issues: Depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, eating disorders, and suicide attempts.
Substance Abuse: Increased risk of alcoholism, drug abuse, and smoking.
Social and Behavioral Problems: Risky sexual behavior, violence, incarceration, and difficulties in relationships.

The mechanism behind this connection is believed to be the impact of chronic stress and trauma on brain development and the body's stress response systems. Prolonged exposure to adversity can alter brain architecture, immune function, and hormonal regulation, leading to long-term health consequences.

Interpreting Your ACE Score

It's crucial to understand that your ACE score is a risk indicator, not a diagnosis or a predictor of your inevitable future. A high ACE score does not mean you are doomed to poor health or a difficult life. Instead, it serves as a valuable piece of information that can empower you to take proactive steps towards healing and well-being.

Score of 0-3: While any adverse experience can have an impact, lower scores are generally associated with better health outcomes. This does not mean you haven't faced challenges, but based on these specific categories, your exposure to these particular adverse childhood experiences is limited.
Score of 4-6: Scores in this range suggest a moderate level of exposure to adverse childhood experiences. Research indicates an increased risk for certain health and behavioral issues later in life. Understanding this can be a powerful step towards seeking support and building resilience.
Score of 7-10: High ACE scores are strongly correlated with a significantly increased risk for various physical and mental health problems, substance abuse, and social challenges in adulthood. It's important to remember that your ACE score is not your destiny, but it highlights the importance of self-care, seeking support, and understanding the potential impacts of your past experiences.

Moving Forward: Resilience and Healing

Regardless of your ACE score, resilience is possible. Many factors can mitigate the effects of ACEs, including:

Supportive Relationships: Having at least one stable, nurturing relationship with an adult during childhood.
Coping Skills: Developing healthy ways to manage stress and emotions.
Positive Experiences: Engaging in activities that foster self-esteem and a sense of belonging.
Therapy and Counseling: Professional support can help process trauma and develop coping strategies.
Mindfulness and Self-Care: Practices like meditation, exercise, and healthy eating can support overall well-being.

Understanding your ACE score is a step towards self-awareness and can guide you in seeking appropriate resources and support. It's a tool for understanding your past, not defining your future.