Important Disclaimer
This screening tool is for educational and self-awareness purposes only. It does not constitute a clinical diagnosis. A comprehensive evaluation by a qualified professional is required for an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis.
What This Assessment Measures
- Social skills
- Attention switching
- Attention to detail
- Communication
- Imagination
10
Questions
2
Minutes
100%
Confidential
About the AQ-10
The Autism Spectrum Quotient – 10 items (AQ-10) is a brief screening tool developed by Allison, Auyeung, and Baron-Cohen at the Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge. It was designed as a quick "red flag" screening instrument to identify adults who may benefit from a comprehensive autism assessment.
The AQ-10 was derived from the longer 50-item Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) questionnaire. Through statistical analysis of over 1,000 cases and 3,000 controls, the researchers identified the 10 most discriminating items that effectively differentiate between autistic and non-autistic individuals.
Importantly, the AQ-10 is a screening tool only — it is not designed to provide a diagnosis. A score of 6 or above suggests that a comprehensive autism assessment may be warranted. The tool has been validated across multiple languages and cultural contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the AQ-10 measure?+
The AQ-10 measures traits associated with autism spectrum disorder across domains including social skills, attention switching, attention to detail, communication, and imagination. It was designed as a brief 'red flag' screening tool.
What score indicates possible autism?+
A score of 6 or above on the AQ-10 is considered the screening threshold. This means a comprehensive autism assessment may be warranted. However, the AQ-10 alone cannot diagnose autism.
Is the AQ-10 a diagnostic test?+
No. The AQ-10 is a screening tool only. A formal autism diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified professional, which typically includes developmental history, behavioral observation, and standardized diagnostic instruments.
Are my responses stored?+
No. All responses remain completely private and local to your browser. No data is collected, stored, or transmitted to any server.
References
- Allison C, Auyeung B, Baron-Cohen S. Toward brief 'Red Flags' for autism screening: The Short Autism Spectrum Quotient and the Short Quantitative Checklist in 1,000 cases and 3,000 controls. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2012;51(2):202-212.
- 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. J Autism Dev Disord. 2001;31(1):5-17.
- Booth T, Murray AL, McKenzie K, Kuenssberg R, O'Donnell M, Burnett H. Brief report: An evaluation of the AQ-10 as a brief screening instrument for ASD in adults. J Autism Dev Disord. 2013;43(12):2997-3000.
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