A Parent-Friendly Breakdown of ADOS-2 Scoring
Published April 22, 2025 by Dror Arbel at 101Autism.com
If you’re navigating an autism assessment, ADOS-2 scores can feel like alphabet soup. This guide walks you through each module. It shows real-parent examples. Additionally, it embeds a quick video and infographic to make sense of everything. Let’s dive in!
1. What Is ADOS-2 Scoring?
The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2), is a gold-standard observational tool. Clinicians use it to assess communication, social interaction, and play.
- Raw Score: Points tallied from observed behaviors
- Comparison Score: Standardized on a 1–10 scale for cross-module comparison
For more on adult testing pathways, see our Adult Autism Diagnosis Guide.
2. Module Breakdown & Score Table
| Module | Age/Language Level | Raw Score Range | Comparison Score & Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toddler | 12–30 mo, nonverbal | 0–20 | 1–4: Minimal behaviors · 5–7: Mild · 8–10: Clear ASD signs |
| Module 1 | Pre-verbal / single words | 0–28 | 1–3: Minimal · 4–6: Mild · 7+: Clear ASD |
| Module 2 | Phrase speech | 0–30 | 1–3: Minimal · 4–7: Mild · 8+: Clear ASD |
| Module 3 | Fluent speech (children & adolescents) | 0–30 | 1–3: Minimal · 4–5: Mild · 6+: Clear ASD |
| Module 4 | Fluent speech (adolescents & adults) | 0–30 | 1–2: Minimal · 3–4: Mild · 5+: Clear ASD |
Check out our deep dive on Understanding SRS-2 Assessment for complementary insights.
3. Real-Parent Case Study
“My son’s Module 4 comparison score came back as 6. I finally understood why his eye contact and social chat felt off. My psychologist walked me through each item. Now I know what to ask. I feel equipped to advocate for him at work.”
— Jessica, parent & autism advocate
Watch: ADOS-2 in Action
And here’s a quick infographic for a visual recap:
5. Actionable Next Steps
- Prepare questions: “Can you explain my loved one’s module and comparison score?”
- Download your report and compare raw vs. comparison scores.
- Read our Adult Autism Diagnosis Guide for post-diagnosis planning.
- Explore sensory tools in our Sensory-Friendly Recipes guide.
For local providers, check these directories:
FAQ
❓ How long does an ADOS-2 assessment take?
Most modules run 30–60 minutes; a full assessment may span 2–3 hours including interview and feedback.
❓ Can a self-report replace ADOS-2?
No—self-screeners (AQ-10, SRS-2) are great first steps but a clinician-led ADOS-2 is required for formal diagnosis and accommodations.
❓ What if my comparison score is borderline?
Ask your clinician for a detailed breakdown of raw subdomain scores and consider a second opinion or complementary measures like the SRS-2.
You’ve got this! Understanding your ADOS-2 scores is the first step toward clarity and empowerment. If you have questions or want to share your story, drop a comment below or visit our Contact page.
