Deenz Neurodiversity Scale (DNS)

Deenz Neurodiversity Scale (DNS-32) is a self-assessment tool, designed to measure neurodiversity on a spectrum and evaluate behaviors and experiences across various subtypes, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, and dyspraxia. The scale consists of 32 questions related to your experiences, behaviors and the way you interact with the world. For each statement, indicate your level of agreement.

Over the years, the perspective on neurodivergence has changed significantly, modern psychology emphasizes understanding neurodivergent traits on a spectrum. Exhibiting neurodivergent traits does not necessarily mean that a person might have neurological disorder; instead, it recognizes that everyone exhibits variations in how the brain functions or processes information.

Researchers have emphasized, understanding traits associated with neurodivergence on a spectrum, and these traits may be exhibited by anyone to some extent. To measure the extent to which someone exhibits these traits, there was a recognized need for a valid and reliable instrument.

Deenz Neurodiversity Scale (DNS-32) the main purpose of the scale is to measure neurodivergent traits in general or non clinical population. In the study of 302 students, in which 104 were female and 199 were male, the DNS-32 proved to be accurate in measuring the traits associated with neurodivergence in various domains.

Being neurodivergent does not necessarily mean that a person has a neurological disorder. Everyone is different, and each person’s brain functions and processes information in unique ways. Also being a nerogivergent does not mean a person whose neurological functions differ from those of a typical individual, has any type of defect but it means the persons brain is functions in a different way of processing information and perceiving the world around in a different way.

This neurodivergent self-test can provide insights and can measure the traits you may be exhibiting but can not replace the official diagnosis of any psychological or neurological conditions. The assessment consists of 32 statements and typically takes 5–7 minutes to complete. Participants respond to statements describing experiences, behaviors, preferences, and characteristics commonly associated with neurodivergent traits. There are no right or wrong answers.

This computerized version of Deenz Neurodiversity Scale (DNS-32) is based on the preliminarily version of research, development and validation of DNS-32. The information provided is solely for educational purposes. There is no age limit for participating in this self-assessment. We neither ask nor collect personal information, nor do we process or store your results, especially for research purposes. We adhere to the ethical guidelines set forth by the Institutional Review Board (IRB).

The scoring of this self-test is very simple as there are 32 items scored on a five-point response scale. Item responses are summed to produce a raw total score ranging from 0 to 128, with higher scores indicating greater levels of neurodivergent-related characteristics.

Results include an Overall Neurodiversity Score and scores for four dimensions: Autistic Traits, ADHD Traits, Dyslexia Traits, and Dyspraxia Traits.

Dimension scores are standardized to a 0–100 scale and interpreted using qualitative categories.

The results also provide percentile-based normative comparisons showing the approximate percentage of participants whose scores were lower than the respondent’s score.

I sometimes struggle to understand when someone is joking.

Making new friends can be challenging for me.

I get really stressed when plans change or unexpected things happen.

I prefer familiar environments over new ones.

I sometimes struggle with making eye contact.

I am sensitive to sensory stimuli such as lights, sounds, or textures.

I often feel anxious or overwhelmed in busy or loud places.

I pay close attention to details and often see things that others might not.

I find it hard to sit still for a long time.

I often act without thinking first.

I forget where I put things like my keys or phone.

I feel the need to fidget or move when sitting.

I may struggle to listen when someone is talking for a long time.

I find it challenging to focus on tasks that aren't interesting to me.

I love thinking deeply and talking about big ideas and philosophy.

I feel better when I'm alone and need quiet time to recharge.

Reading and spelling are sometimes difficult for me.

I use pictures or context to help me understand what I read.

I might avoid reading because it feels tiring.

I enjoy activities that don't involve much reading.

I find it easier to understand information when it's spoken.

I take my time to think and decide, and I need a lot of it.

I really love certain hobbies and get super into them.

I'm good at solving problems and thinking creatively.

I find tasks like tying shoelaces or buttoning clothes to be bothersome.

My handwriting might not be very neat or consistent.

I get scared of sports or exercise.

I have trouble balancing or walking in a straight line.

I might have trouble with activities that need careful movements.

I find it hard to plan ahead consistently.

I switch between being very social and wanting to be alone.

I notice that I often overestimate or underestimate what I can do.