Various screening tools are used to assess and identify potential signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The most common one’s are
Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism (ISAA):
Age Range: Developed for individuals aged 2 to 18 years.
Description: ISAA is an indigenous screening tool developed in India. It assesses social, communicative, and behavioral aspects associated with autism.
Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS):
Age Range: Applicable for individuals of all ages.
Description: CARS is a clinician-administered rating scale that assesses behaviors associated with autism. It involves direct observation and interaction with the individual.
Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT):
Age Range: Primarily used for toddlers aged 16 to 30 months.
Description: M-CHAT is a parent-report questionnaire that assesses early signs of autism in toddlers. It is widely used for its simplicity and effectiveness.
Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ):
Age Range: Used for individuals aged 4 years and older.
Description: SCQ is a parent or teacher questionnaire that assesses social communication skills and repetitive behaviors. It is based on the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
Autism Spectrum Rating Scales (ASRS):
Age Range: Applicable for individuals aged 2 to 18 years.
Description: ASRS is a tool that assesses social, communication, and behavioral characteristics associated with ASD. It includes parent and teacher rating scales.
Screening Tool for Autism in Two-Year-Olds (STAT):
Age Range: Designed for toddlers aged 24 to 36 months.
Description: STAT is a direct observation tool involving an interactive play session to assess social communication skills in young children.
It’s important to note that while these tools are used for screening purposes, a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation is usually required for a formal diagnosis of autism. Qualified healthcare professionals, psychologists, and special educators are typically involved in the assessment and diagnosis of autism.
