The Ritvo Autism & Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-14): everything you need to know
I’m sure you’ve heard of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, which has been updated several times and is commonly referred to as DSM-5. Well, one way or another, in most countries with autism guidelines, the same scale (the Ritvo Autism & Asperger Diagnostic Scale) or something similar is used to determine if someone should be considered autistic. Most people who use this scale don’t even know it exists – that’s why everyone should know about it and what it stands for.
What is RAADS?
The Ritvo Autism & Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-14) questionnaire can help diagnose autism and Asperger syndrome. It consists of 14 questions, each rated from 0 to 3 on a scale. A total score of 70 or above indicates a substantial likelihood of autism spectrum disorder.
About RAADS-14
If you think you or your child may be on the autism spectrum, the first step is to consult with a professional. The Ritvo Autism & Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-14) is one of the most commonly used diagnostic tools. It was developed by Dr. Susan Swedo in 1997 as an extension of the DSM IV criteria. It assesses behavioral problems associated with autism and related disorders in children aged 2-16. It consists of 14 questions, each answered on a scale from 0 (never) to 3 (always). For example, to evaluate social interaction problems, respondents are asked about behaviors such as:
- Does your child avoid eye contact?
- Does your child seem to have difficulty understanding how someone else feels?
- Does your child prefer not to be touched?
- To evaluate communication difficulties, respondents are asked about behaviors such as:
- For example, does your child use monosyllabic words?
- Does your child repeat words or phrases over and over again? -Does your child struggle with communicating needs?
- Do others understand what your child says?
It also measures restricted, repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior by asking about habits such as:
- Does your child flap their hands excessively?
- Is there a ritualistic routine in the way he/she arranges objects? -Does your child make excessive noises?
- Does your child do things that could cause harm to himself/herself or others?
Finally, the test measures intelligence level by assessing skills such as:
- Can your child name different colors?
- Can your child identify shapes like squares and circles? -Can your child copy a drawing?
- Does your child follow simple instructions like putting the red block on top of the green block?
To take this assessment, you must answer yes to at least two items from each category. Once completed, parents will receive a report outlining their children’s strengths and areas for improvement so they can develop appropriate treatment plans. A high score typically indicates symptoms indicative of high-functioning autism or Asperger Syndrome. Parents should discuss these results with their pediatrician to learn which treatment suits their children best.
How To Use RAADS
The Ritvo Autism & Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-14) questionnaire can help diagnose autism and Asperger syndrome. It consists of 14 questions, each rated from 0 to 3 on a scale. A total score of 30 or above indicates a substantial likelihood of autism or Asperger syndrome.
Scoring Guide
The RAADS-14 is a 14-item questionnaire about behaviors and symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorders. It is intended for use with adults 18 years and older. The questionnaire takes about 20 minutes to complete.
| Score | Indication |
| 160 or above | indicates that an individual is very likely to have an autism spectrum disorder. |
| 130-159 | Indicates a moderate likelihood |
| Below 130 | Indicates a low likelihood |
Alternative Names For This Assessment
- The Ritvo Autism and Asperger Syndrome Diagnostic Scale-Revised (RAADS-R)
- The Social Responsiveness Scale, Second Edition (SRS-2)
- The Autism Spectrum Quotient, Second Edition (AQ-2)
- The Empathy Quotient (EQ)
- The Systemizing Quotient-Revised (SQ-R)
How Is RAADS Used?
The RAADS-14 is a questionnaire that can be used to help diagnose autism and Asperger syndrome. It is not a replacement for a full clinical assessment but can help identify people who may benefit from further evaluation.
Who Can I Give This Test To?
The RAADS-14 can be given to anyone on the autism spectrum, from children to adults. It is important to note that the test is not intended as a sole diagnosis tool but as a part of a comprehensive assessment.
When Should I Use This Test?
If you think you or your child may have autism or Asperger’s, the RAADS-14 can give you a reliable, research-based answer. This test is most accurate when administered by a trained professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. However, it can also be taken online.
What Should I Know About Measuring ASD?
If you suspect that you or someone you love may have autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it is essential to be assessed by a professional. One of the most commonly used assessment tools for ASD is the Ritvo Autism & Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-14). Here’s what you need to know about this important measure.
Testing Tips From A Parent’s Perspective
If your child is showing signs of autism or Asperger’s, getting a diagnosis can be vital to getting them the help they need. The Ritvo Autism & Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-14) is one of the most commonly used tests for these conditions. Here are some tips from a parent’s perspective on what to expect during testing.
The RAADS-14 is not a 144 item questionnaire as stated, it is a 14 item screening tool. You should correct this information soon as it is misleading
Thank you