This test consists of a structured interview and is meant for individuals with a mental age of at least 2 years. Composing of 93 items, it focuses on the 3 functional domains of communication, reciprocal social interactions, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped behaviors/interests. Administration takes usually between 1.5-2.5 hours. Uses the Comprehensive Algorithm Form (W-382E) to score. 

Autism Diagnosis Interview (ADI-R)

A standardized assessment tool for diagnosing children and adults that involves semi-structured play or interview session, depending on the individual’s age. Behaviors are observed that are likely elicited by the social situations put forth by the tester. It typically takes 40-60 minutes to complete. 

Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Generic (ADOS-G)

Consists of information gathered from the child and parental completion of a questionnaire. Though there is a parental questionnaire to fill out, this can be incorporated into the diagnosis decision by the professional and is not sufficient to stand alone for diagnosis. This test is best suited for children under age 6, or children with an IQ of 79 or lower, and is not meant for older children/adults or high-functioning. 

Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS)

Meant for clinicians, parents, and teachers, it is best suited for identifying signs of ASD in ages 3-22 years old and estimating severity. Based on the diagnostic criteria in the DSM-5, items are grouped into 6 subscales: restrictive, repetitive behaviors, social interaction, social communication, emotional responses, cognitive style, and maladaptive speech. Only takes 5-10 minutes to administer.

Gilliam Autism Rating Scale – Third Edition (GARS-3)

Aside from the diagnostic criteria found in the DSM-5, there are a variety of screening tools that can help aid diagnosis. These tools typically rely on parental observations and the observation of a professional of the child’s development and behavior. 

- Autism Diagnosis Interview (ADI-R)
- Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule – Generic (ADOS-G)
- Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS)
- Gilliam Autism Rating Scale - 3rd Edition (GARS-3)

University of Rochester

Bowdoin College

Prior to DSM-5, there were multiple separate diagnoses under the broad range of the Autism Spectrum, but now they are simply denoted as ASD. The single diagnosis of ASD replaced the subcategories that existed prior. To be diagnosed, the individual must have persistent difficulties in social skills and communication and restricted and repetitive behaviors that have been around since childhood. 
Screening is recommended at 18 and 24 months old during regular clinician visits, though more screenings could be recommended if the child is at higher risk. 

- Diagnostic Screening Tools
- Diagnoses Prior to DSM-5


Diagnosing ASD in Children (DSM-5)

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, February 11). Screening and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder for healthcare providers. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/hcp-screening.html.

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