Objective: The primary aim of this study is to examine and explain the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the commission of drug-related offenses among male and female adolescents in Alborz Province, Iran. The research further provides a comparative criminological analysis of these two groups.

Method: This study employed a causal-comparative (ex post facto) design. The sample consisted of 330 non-delinquent adolescent girls and 32 delinquent adolescent boys, aged 15 to 18. To assess childhood trauma, the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ; Bernstein et al., 2003) was utilized. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28 and the Mann–Whitney U test due to non-normal data distribution.

Findings: Delinquent boys scored significantly higher than their non-delinquent female counterparts across all dimensions of childhood trauma, including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, as well as emotional and physical neglect (p < 0.05). Moreover, factors such as parental divorce, domestic violence, and parental substance abuse were found to significantly increase the likelihood of engaging in drug-related delinquency. The theoretical framework of the study, grounded in Attachment Theory, Self-Control Theory, Developmental Criminology, Social Learning Theory, and General Strain Theory, indicated that adverse childhood experiences contribute to the development of insecure attachment styles, diminished self-regulation, and a higher propensity toward risky or criminal behaviors during adolescence.

Conclusion:The research confirms that adverse childhood experiences—particularly those occurring before the age of 15—play a critical role in the development of drug-related delinquent behavior between ages 15 and 18. Juvenile delinquency, especially in the domain of drug offenses, emerges as a multifactorial phenomenon rooted in early psychosocial and familial trauma. Accordingly, criminal justice policies should prioritize not only punitive responses but also proactive prevention, early screening, and psychosocial interventions targeting at-risk children.