Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ)
What it is
The AQ (Autism Spectrum Quotient) is a self-report questionnaire designed to help identify characteristics associated with autism in adults. It was developed by Dr. Simon Baron-Cohen and his team at the Cambridge Autism Research Centre. The AQ is a simple tool that helps people reflect on traits related to autism, such as social interaction, communication, attention to detail, and routines. While it’s not a diagnostic tool on its own, the AQ can indicate whether someone might benefit from a more thorough assessment for autism.
How is it used
The AQ is suitable for adults aged 16 and older. It’s quick and straightforward to complete, typically taking about 10 minutes. The questions ask about everyday experiences, such as comfort in social situations, preference for routines, and attention to detail. Because it’s easy to administer, the AQ can be used in clinical settings, during therapy, or even for self-reflection by individuals who are curious about whether they might be on the autism spectrum.
What do the scores mean?
The AQ consists of 50 questions that cover five key areas: 1. Social Skills 2. Attention Switching 3. Attention to Detail 4. Communication 5. Imagination
Each question is rated on a scale from 1 (definitely agree) to 4 (definitely disagree). The responses are then scored, with higher scores indicating a greater number of traits associated with autism.
The total score ranges from 0 to 50. Here’s how to interpret the scores:
- A score of 0 to 25 suggests a low likelihood of autism traits.
- Scores between 26 and 32 may indicate some traits associated with autism but do not necessarily suggest a diagnosis.
- A score of 33 or above is often used as a threshold to identify traits consistent with autism, suggesting that further evaluation might be helpful.
It’s important to remember that the AQ is not a diagnostic tool. It simply highlights traits that may be associated with autism. If someone scores 33 or above, it could be a good idea to discuss the results with a healthcare professional for a more detailed assessment.
What does the research say?
The AQ has been widely researched and validated, making it a reliable tool for identifying autism-related traits in adults. It’s been shown to have good internal consistency, meaning that it measures what it’s supposed to in a consistent way. The AQ has also been used in various studies to understand the prevalence of autism traits in different populations, making it a trusted tool among clinicians and researchers.
One of the strengths of the AQ is its ability to capture a wide range of traits that may be associated with autism, especially in adults who might not have been diagnosed during childhood. It can be especially helpful in situations where autism might be underrecognised, such as among individuals who have developed coping mechanisms or who are high-functioning.
Developer
Baron-Cohen et al. (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(1), 5-17.