ADULT AUTISM SCREENING (RAADS-14)
Did You Know?
Globally, research found that 1-2% of adults live with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, many autistic do not receive a diagnosis until adulthood, especially those with atypical profiles or have developed adaptive strategies to function in society. Without proper diagnosis or support, autistics have a higher risk of mental disorders, stress due to the misunderstanding of those around them, and social stigma. They may be labelled as ‘insensitive’, ‘weird’, or ‘difficult to get along with’, even though they have difficulties stemming from the differences of brain functioning.
With a proper diagnosis, autistics have the chance to understand how their brains function and explore appropriate copy strategies. Every autistic has unique lived-experience, thus we believe that by getting a comprehensive understanding of the autism spectrum can help them live a more meaningful life.
If you are wondering you might be on the autism spectrum, you can start the first step by doing an autism screening for adults.
Autism and ADHD
Research shows that around 50-70% of autistic also have ADHD (Hours et al., 2022), making these two conditions often coexist (comorbid). However, because of the overlapping symptoms and the way each individual adapts to their environment, many only receive a diagnosis of one of them, or are not diagnosed at all.
Ritvo Autism & Asperger Diagnostic Scale (RAADS-14)
RAADS-14 Information
RAADS-14 is a screening tool designed to help identify Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in adults. It is a shortened version of the original RAADS-R scale, assessing ASD symptoms across four main domains: language, social relationship, sensory motor, and restricted interests.
It is important to understand that the RAADS-14 is not a diagnostic tool, but rather a screening tool that assists mental health professionals in the initial assessment process. The RAADS-14 was designed for the adult population aged 16 and over and for those with an IQ >80.
| Language: | English |
| Total Question: | 14 |
| Total Duration: | 3–6 minutes |
| Type: | Screening Tool |
| Developer: | Eriksson, J. M., Andersen, L. M., & Bejerot, S. Ronald C. |
| Year: | 2013
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Start RAADS-14 Screening
What's The Next Step?
Screening is the first step to understand the probability of you being on the autism spectrum. It is NOT a diagnostic tool. There are many conditions that have the same or similar symptoms as autism, including ADHD and social anxiety disorder. It is important for us to determine that the symptoms experienced are due to autism and not other conditions, or if there is comorbidity. Thus, it is important to get a thorough assessment to get an accurate diagnosis.
If you score more than 14, we suggest you get a further assessment. Ideally, the screening score should be interpreted by trained professionals and with a comprehensive assessment. Autism diagnosis requires consideration of various factors such including developmental history, current symptoms, and impact on daily life functioning.
An important aspect to emphasize is that although the RAADS-14 is free for clinical use and easy to administer, it should be used as part of a more comprehensive assessment process. A final diagnosis of autism cannot be made solely on the basis of an RAADS-14 score, but should instead involve a comprehensive clinical assessment by a qualified mental health professional.
At Minda Inklusif, we do not provide a full autism assessment. However, if you suspect that you may be on the autism spectrum, you can undergo a mental health screening or clinical intake interview with our clinical psychologist. In this session, you can discuss your concerns and symptoms, and get recommendations and/or referrals for further evaluation if needed.