Background
The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ-50) is a self-report screening questionnaire developed to measure autistic traits in adolescents and adults with average or above-average intelligence. The scale was created by Simon Baron-Cohen and colleagues at the Autism Research Centre, University of Cambridge.
The AQ-50 measures characteristics commonly associated with autism spectrum conditions across social interaction, communication, imagination, attention switching, and attention to detail. It is widely used in psychological research, educational settings, and mental health screening.
This assessment is intended for screening and educational purposes only and does not provide a clinical diagnosis.
Procedure
You will read a series of statements related to social behavior, communication, imagination, routines, and attention patterns. Select the response that best describes how strongly you agree or disagree with each statement based on your everyday experiences.
Participation
There are no right or wrong answers. Respond honestly and choose the option that best reflects your typical behavior, preferences, and experiences.
Scoring & Interpretation
The Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ-50) utilizes a binary scoring system where each response indicates either the presence or absence of an autistic trait.
For each of the 50 statements:
- Forward-scored items (marked with mapping key 0) score 2-1 point if you select "Definitely Agree" or "Slightly Agree", and 0 points if you select "Slightly Disagree" or "Definitely Disagree".
- Reverse-scored items (marked with mapping key 1) score 2-1 point if you select "Definitely Disagree" or "Slightly Disagree", and 0 points if you select "Slightly Agree" or "Definitely Agree".
The total raw score ranges from 0 to 150, with higher scores representing a greater accumulation of autistic traits. The 50 items are divided into five subscales: Social Skills, Attention Switching, Imagination, Attention to Detail, and Communication. Subscale scores represent the count of autistic-trait-conforming responses within that specific dimension, which are then standardized to a 0-100 percentage scale for comparative reporting. A total score of 85 or higher is generally considered a significant clinical threshold suggesting strong autistic traits.
Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ-50) Questionnaire
Below is the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ-50), a digitally adapted 50- items self-assessment questionnaire. Read each of the following 50 statements carefully and select the option that best describes how strongly you agree or disagree with it. For each statement, choose either "Definitely Agree", "Slightly Agree", "Slightly Disagree", or "Definitely Disagree" based on your typical behavior, preferences, and experiences in your everyday life. Do not spend too much time on any single statement; your first reaction is often the most accurate.
Sources
- S Baron-Cohen , et al. The Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ): Evidence from Asperger Syndrome/High-Functioning Autism, Males and Females, Scientists and Mathematicians. J Autism Dev Disord. 31(1):5–17. .
- S Baron-Cohen , et al. Psychometric properties of the Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ). J Autism Dev Disord. 33(2):125–132. .
- S Wheelwright , et al. Predicting Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) from cognitive style and systemizing traits. J Autism Dev Disord. 36(1):1–14. .
- S Baron-Cohen , et al. The systemizing quotient (SQ) and empathizing quotient (EQ): Extensions related to AQ framework. Phil Trans R Soc B. 358(1430):361–374. .
Version History
Improved dimensional interpretation 03/04/2026.
Responsive assessment interface 05/03/2026.
Professional psychometric reporting support 05/08/2026.