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.

University of Rochester

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)

CDC ASD Screening and Diagnosis

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)

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