Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD, popularly known as autism ) refers to a diverse group of neurological and developmental conditions that can impact one’s ability to socialize with others, communicate, and behave. The term “spectrum” denotes the wide range of symptoms and severities associated with this condition. A widely occurring condition, autism reportedly affects one in every hundred children around the world, with symptoms generally appearing within the first two years of life.

Symptoms of autism
Although not everyone with ASD experiences the same symptoms, some seem to reappear frequently.

• Making little or inconsistent eye contact
• Failing to respond to their name
• Resisting cuddling or holding, retreating into a shell
• Infrequent sharing of interests or emotions
• Lack of or delayed speech
• Having difficulties continuing conversations
• Speaking with an abnormal tone or rhythm
• Displaying facial expressions or mannerisms that do not match with what is being said
• Difficulty in adjusting behavior to social situations
• Difficulty in participating in imaginative play or making friends
• Repeating certain behaviors, words, or phrases
• Having a lasting, intense interest in specific topics
• Becoming upset about slight changes in routine or transitions
• Being more sensitive to sensory input, such as light, sound, clothing, or temperature

Types of autism tests
If one begins to notice these signs and symptoms, it may be time to get tested for ASD. Testing is crucial, as it allows timely intervention, improves access to resources, creates an opportunity to offer tailored support, and enhances community awareness.

1. Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)
This is a structured interview designed to gather all relevant information from the parents or caregivers about the child’s behavior and development. It covers three main areas: social interaction, communication, and restricted and repetitive behaviors. The test was developed by Michael Rutter and his team and is today hailed as one of the gold standards in the field.

2. Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS)
Curated by Catherine Lord, Michael Rutter, and other experts, ADOS is a test used to directly assess a person’s social interaction, communication, and behavior. It works splendidly for people of all ages and developmental levels.  During this test, the clinician engages the participant in several structured social and communicative activities to better understand how they would respond. Each of these responses is scored on a scale to ascertain a proper diagnosis for ASD.

3. Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS)
Only diagnosing autism is not enough. One must also understand its severity. This is done using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale. Modeled by Eric Schopler, Robert J. Reichler, and Barbara Rochen Renner, this scale has 15 items that are useful in providing a quantitative measure of the disorder. It utilizes a mix of direct observation by clinicians and information received from parents and caregivers. This tool also measures ongoing progress and assesses changes in autistic behaviors over time.

4. Gilliam Autism Rating Scale (GARS)
Another frequently used tool in screening and diagnosing ASD is GARS, developed by James E. Gilliam. It is primarily based on collecting information from parents and caregivers. GARS has three subscales: the Stereotyped Behaviors Scale, the Communication Scale, and the Social Interaction Scale. Each subscale analyses certain behavioral aspects related to ASD symptoms.

Online autism spectrum tests
Many people may find it difficult to schedule an appointment and visit a therapist. That is why organizations have developed online screening tools to determine ASD traits.

For children
Autism is generally diagnosed in children under the age of three. Since these children are too young to take the tests, their parents/guardians must fill in the answers. The American Academy of Pediatrics provides direct access to many of these tests.

• The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers – R/F (M-Chat-R/F) – This 20-item checklist requires direct yes/no responses from caregivers regarding questions about early autism traits.
• The Survey of Well-Being of Young Children (SWYC): Parent’s Observations of Social Interactions (POSI) – This test is designed to detect ASD in children under the age of 5 and it takes 15 minutes to complete.
• The Repetitive Behavior Questionnaire (RBQ) – This 33-item questionnaire was structured by Michelle Turner. It is useful for determining one part of autism— repetitive behaviors.
• The Online Developmental Screening Study – The MIND institute offers this screening study, which involves multiple video-based doctor visits and observations.

For adults
Many adults with low support needs continue to live with undiagnosed ASD. Those looking for an answer could try out certain tests.

• The Adult Repetitive Behavior Questionnaire (RBQ-2A)
  Known as one of the best-researched tools, this test is a self-administered questionnaire that measures restricted and repetitive behaviors in adults. It was modeled by Sarah Barrett and her team and it takes 5-10 minutes to complete.
• The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) Test
  The AQ test consists of 50 questions and was developed by researcher Simon Baron Cohen. This is also a self-administered questionnaire used to identify autistic behaviors in people over the age of 16.

It is important to note that online tests do not diagnose autism. While they are a powerful screening mechanism, one still needs to visit a professional for a proper ASD diagnosis.