Adult Autism/Asperger's Syndrome Test

Researchers led by psychologist Dr. Simon Baron-Cohen at Cambridge University's Autism Research Centre created the Autism Quotient or AQ, in an effort to measure the extent of autistic or Asperger's syndrome traits in adults. note that the scores of this screening test are not diagnostic and do not diagnose the presence of autism by themselves. We hope you discuss your score with your doctor or health professional.

What is autism?

Autism is a neurological disorder most commonly diagnosed during early childhood that causes developmental delays. The symptoms of autism range from mild communication problems to a total inability to communicate feelings, thoughts or emotions. Because of this broad range of symptoms and varying levels of severity, autism is now referred to as autism spectrum disorder. High-functioning autism, also called mild autism, is less severe than other types of autism. In fact, some individuals with high-functioning autism live normal lives with minimal support.

Read more information at our Autism topic center.

How does autism differ from Asperger's Syndrome?

High-functioning autism and Aspergers syndrome are both at the higher end of the autism spectrum because both disorders cause minor symptoms while allowing the person to function at a high level. For this reason, Aspergers disorder and high-functioning autism are sometimes confused or thought to be the same disorder. However, there are definite differences between the two conditions which are expressed in the questionnaire.

Reference & Credit: S. Baron-Cohen, S. Wheelwright, R. Skinner, J. Martin and E. Clubley, (2001) The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) : Evidence from Asperger Syndrome/High Functioning Autism, Males and Females, Scientists and Mathematicians Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders 31:5-17

DISCLAIMER: We are not endorsed or associated with the Autism Research Center. They clearly indicate that their tools are posted online for use in academic research purposes. None of them are diagnostic: No single score on any of these tests or questionnaires indicates that an individual has an Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC).