Overview
The SCQ provides a quick and easy routine screening for autism spectrum disorders (ASD), identifying those who may require further assessment, and supporting treatment and educational planning. It is now available in both paper and pencil and online formats.
Suitable for
Children over 4 years old with a minimum mental age of 2 years
Language Versions
English
Product Description
Previously referred to as the ‘Autism Screening Questionnaire’, the SCQ is a standardised instrument for the screening of autism spectrum disorders. It can be used with individuals over 4 years old, provided their mental age is at least 2 years.
The SCQ comes in two forms, Lifetime and Current, each containing 40 yes-or-no questions. Both forms are designed to be completed directly by the parent or primary caregiver without supervision.
Lifetime Form
The Lifetime Form focuses on the child’s entire developmental history and provides a Total Score based on specific cut-off points. This score helps identify individuals who may have autism and should be referred for a more comprehensive evaluation using the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) or the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2).
Current Form
The Current Form assesses the child’s behaviour over the past 3 months. Results can help support treatment planning, educational intervention, and tracking changes over time.
Applications
Because it is brief, easy to administer, and cost-effective, the SCQ is well-suited for routine screening in clinical, educational, and research settings, allowing for early intervention.
In addition to its role as a screening tool, the SCQ can be used to compare symptom levels across groups, such as children with developmental language disorders or medical conditions commonly associated with autism spectrum disorders.
Interpretation
The SCQ provides a dimensional measure of ASD symptomatology, with a cut-off score that indicates the likelihood of an autism spectrum disorder. It is designed for screening and monitoring, not diagnosis.
While the SCQ is based on caregiver reports and shows strong validity, it does not assess the onset, course and pervasiveness of symptoms across contexts. For diagnosis, results should be verified through clinical observation and comprehensive assessment tools.
Qualification level required:
Level 2. Please see our Test User Qualifications page for guidance.
Duration
Less than 10 minutes
Release Note
2003
