Gujarati Translation and Cultural Adaptation of the Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire and Revised Benevolent Childhood Experiences Scale: A Cross-cultural Validation Pilot Study

Abstract Background: Early childhood experiences are transdiagnostic risk and protective factors for later psychopathology. However, validated Gujarati versions of the Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ) and Revised Benevolent Childhood Experiences (BCEs) Scale are lacking. This study aimed to translate and culturally adapt these instruments into Gujarati and evaluate their content and face validity. Methods: Following author and ethical approval, two healthcare professionals independently performed forward translations, yielding a consensus version for conceptual and grammatical accuracy. Two independent mental health professionals conducted back-translations. An expert panel assessed semantic, content, and face validity, supplemented by validation with Gujarati-speaking participants. Content Validity Index (CVI) was calculated at item and scale levels. Results: All items received ratings of 3 or 4, yielding Item-Level and Scale-Level CVI of 1.0. Participants unanimously agreed on clarity and comprehensibility. Conclusion: The Gujarati ACE-IQ and Revised BCEs Scale demonstrate excellent content and face validity, aligning closely with originals. Further psychometric evaluation is ongoing.