Child Austism Screening

A brief questionnaire for parents to help identify whether their child may show signs associated with autism

Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ)

This is the Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ), commonly used to screen for autism traits in children aged 7–16. It is intended for parents or guardians to complete about their child. Please answer each item based on your child's typical behavior. This will not provide a diagnosis but may offer an insight as to whether a full assessment is warrented.

1. Eccentric or odd behavior

2. Can’t get along with peers

3. No friends

4. Poorly coordinated movements

5. Unusual or peculiar interests

6. Compulsive adherence to routines

7. Difficulty with imaginative play

8. Talks obsessively about one topic

9. Literal interpretation of language

10. Clumsy or awkward body language

11. Lacks empathy

12. Talks in a monotone or odd voice

13. Laughs inappropriately

14. Does not understand social cues

15. Preoccupied with parts of objects

16. Unusual facial expressions

17. Lack of eye contact

18. Has to be told how to behave

19. Lacks common sense

20. Rarely seeks comfort

21. Odd posture or gestures

22. Avoids physical contact

23. Shows unusual attachment to objects

24. Difficulty with transitions

25. Easily overwhelmed by sensory input

26. Lacks understanding of danger

27. Misinterprets others' actions

Reference: Ehlers, S., Gillberg, C., & Wing, L. (1999). A screening questionnaire for Asperger syndrome and other high-functioning autism spectrum disorders in school age children. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 29(2), 129-141.