Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ-50)
Autism-Spectrum Quotient — Full 50-Item Assessment
Ever wonder where you fall on the autism spectrum? The AQ-50 measures autistic traits across 5 dimensions: social skill, attention switching, attention to detail, communication, and imagination. 50 questions, 4-point scale, about 10-15 minutes.
About This Scale
The Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ) was developed by Simon Baron-Cohen and colleagues at the University of Cambridge in 2001, published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry. The AQ-50 is the original full-length version with 50 items covering five core domains of autistic traits.
It is one of the most widely used self-report measures of autistic traits in adults with normal intelligence. The short-form AQ-10 is also available for rapid screening.
Domains
- Social Skill — 10 items
- Attention Switching — 10 items
- Attention to Detail — 10 items
- Communication — 10 items
- Imagination — 10 items
Scoring
Each item uses a 4-point scale (Definitely Agree / Slightly Agree / Slightly Disagree / Definitely Disagree). Standard binary scoring assigns 1 point for autistic-traity responses (either slight or definite endorsement). Total score range 0-50. Cutoff: >= 32 suggests clinically significant autistic traits. Subscale scores can also be calculated per domain.
Psychometrics
Internal consistency alpha = .79-.83. Total >= 32 has specificity 0.97, sensitivity 0.76 (against Asperger syndrome diagnosis). Good test-retest reliability.
Note: The AQ is a screening tool and cannot replace professional clinical diagnosis.
Scoring Guide
Total score range 0-50. Cutoff >= 32 suggests further evaluation may be warranted (specificity 0.97, sensitivity 0.76). 5 domains of 10 items each. Cronbach alpha = .79-.83.Result Interpretation
After completing the 50 questions, you'll receive an immediate, detailed report with:
- Your score — calculated automatically based on your responses
- Score interpretation — what your score means in practical terms
- Dimension breakdown — separate scores for each sub-scale
- Context — how your results compare to general population norms where available
All results are displayed on screen. No account or login needed.