Development and Validation of the Redeemer’s University Adverse Childhood Experiences Scale
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Date
2024
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North American Journal of Psychology
Abstract
Assessing adverse experiences is essential when considering their long-term effects on individuals and the health of communities. This study aimed to develop and validate the Redeemer’s University Adverse Childhood Experience Scale (RUACES) among Nigerian adolescents. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Lagos State, Southwest Nigeria; 316 participants (147 males and 169 females) were selected among in-school adolescents from Lagos State between the ages of 11–19 years (Mean = 15.5; SD=1.66). An initial 45 items were generated through FGD and a thorough literature search. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) using principal component analysis was used to extract 14 components. Of the 45 items, 18 loaded optimally on the first factor, 3 on the second, and 2 on the fourth and eighth factors. Items in the first and second components were retained, while others were removed due to their complex structure and insufficiency. Cronbach's alpha for the RUACES was found to be .87. Concurrent validity coefficients between RUACES and Benevolence Childhood Experiences and between RUACES and Childhood Trauma Questionnaire were found to be r = -.325 (p < 0.001) and r = .367 (p < 0.001), respectively. Based on these results, the Redeemer’s University Adverse Childhood Experience Scale exhibits adequate psychometric qualities. The scale can be used in an educational centre and child and adolescent clinic to assess adolescents who experienced adversity during childhood and are currently experiencing adversity.