Autism Spectrum Test (Quotient)

The Autism Spectrum Quotient helps assess adults with high-functioning autism or Asperger Syndrome (the mildest form on the autism spectrum). It is a measure developed by psychologist Simon Baron-Cohen and colleagues at Cambridge's Autism Research Centre to investigate whether adults of average intelligence present symptoms consistent with autism spectrum conditions.

People with a clinical diagnosis tend to score above 32 out of 50 on the AQ and males in the general population tend to score higher than females.

Please note that whilst scores of 32 or more are considered to be indicating clinically significant levels of autistic traits, this test is not intended by its authors as a self-diagnosis and those who obtain high scores should be seeking professional medical advice.

The study by Woodbury-Smith et al. found that the AQ may be used for screening in clinical practice, with scores lower than 26 able to rule out a diagnosis of Asperger syndrome.

Studies have found the AQ shows heritability (from twin studies) and cross-cultural stability, and that it has predictive value for clinical diagnosis on the autism spectrum.

SYMPTOMS

People suffering from an autism spectrum disorder usually display problems with both verbal and nonverbal communication and expressing their feelings and emotions. They may find it difficult to engage with others emotionally or understand the subtleties of conversation between two people.

Other signs may be inability to make eye contact, repetitive or restrictive behaviours, preferring to stick to rigid routines, developing specific interests or hobbies.

Baron-Cohen S, Wheelwright S, Skinner R, Martin J, Clubley E. The autism-spectrum quotient (AQ): evidence from Asperger syndrome/high-functioning autism, males and females, scientists and mathematicians [published correction appears in J Autism Dev Disord 2001; 31(6):603]. J Autism Dev Disord. 2001; 31(1):5-17. 

Bishop DV, Maybery M, Maley A, Wong D, Hill W, Hallmayer J. Using self-report to identify the broad phenotype in parents of children with autistic spectrum disorders: a study using the Autism-Spectrum Quotient. J Child Psychol Psychiatry. 2004; 45(8):1431-1436. 

Hoekstra, R.A., Bartels, M., Cath, D.C. et al. Factor Structure, Reliability and Criterion Validity of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ): A Study in Dutch Population and Patient Groups. J Autism Dev Disord. 2008; 38, 1555–1566. 

Woodbury-Smith MR, Robinson J, Wheelwright S, Baron-Cohen S. Screening adults for Asperger Syndrome using the AQ: a preliminary study of its diagnostic validity in clinical practice. J Autism Dev Disord. 2005; 35(3):331-335.