AQ-50
Autism Spectrum Quotient
A 50-item self-report measure of autistic traits in adults.
For each statement, select the response that best matches how you feel. Answer based on how things generally are for you.
About the AQ-50
The Autism Spectrum Quotient is a 50-item self-report questionnaire developed by Simon Baron-Cohen and colleagues at the Autism Research Centre in Cambridge. It measures five trait domains associated with autism: social skills, attention switching, attention to detail, communication, and imagination.
Designed for adults (16+) with normal intelligence. Takes about 10–15 minutes to complete.
Scoring
Each item scores 0 or 1 based on whether the response aligns with the autistic direction (some items are reverse-scored). A score of 26 or above indicates the presence of autistic traits; 32 or above is highly consistent with autism. 79.3% of autistic adults score 32+, while only 2% of non-autistic adults exceed the threshold.
Reference scores
Autistic Adults
35.8
Mean score
Non-Autistic Adults
16.4
Mean score
Reliability
The AQ-50 has strong test-retest reliability (r = 0.70) and good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α ≈ 0.82). It has been translated into over 20 languages and validated across multiple cultures.
Important: The AQ-50 is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. A high score indicates that a fuller clinical evaluation may be worthwhile.
Baron-Cohen, S., Wheelwright, S., Skinner, R., Martin, J., & Clubley, E. (2001). The Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ): Evidence from Asperger Syndrome/High-Functioning Autism, Males and Females, Scientists and Mathematicians. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 31(1), 5–17.