Are Autism Tests Accurate?

One of the biggest challenges in diagnosing autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the fact that there isn’t one set test that can reveal whether a person has the developmental disability or not.

While ASD diagnostics have improved greatly in recent years, it can’t be easily identified through a blood test, for example, as some other disorders can. Instead, autism must be diagnosed through comprehensive assessments including observations and discussions with parents.

Today, there are many different ways that a person can be tested for autism. There are even some online versions that can provide information as to whether a person may or may not be exhibiting the common signs and symptoms of the developmental disorder.

Take the Online Autism Test

Below, we’ll discuss more details about these online tests, as well as what the most accurate way to diagnose ASD is.

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What Are Online Tests for Autism?

Online tests for autism were designed to be a screening tool to help people gain more information about whether or not they — or someone else — displays the common characteristics of ASD. By answering many multiple-choice questions, people can gain a better understanding of whether they should be further evaluated for autism.

In many ways, these online tools can be extremely helpful for people, especially for parents who may be wondering whether their child has autism. The online tests can give them more guided insight into whether their child is exhibiting the common traits of autism and, as a result, whether they should seek out more professional help.

Online autism tests should really only be used as screening tools, though. Since they don’t involve any direct interaction with the patient, it’s difficult for a professional to get a well-rounded picture of the individual.

In addition, these tests rely solely on data as reported by the patient or by the parent of a patient, for instance. As such, it’s possible that the person filling out the tests may not be as honest as they need to be about the answers, which could generate inaccurate results.

How is Autism Diagnosed by a Professional?

The most accurate way to get a reliable autism diagnosis is by visiting a health professional who is qualified to treat mental health. These professionals — such as the clinical psychologists at Blue Gems ABA — will use a multi-step process to evaluate people for ASD.

This can include a screening and initial assessment, using tools such as the M-CHAT or other similar methods. If the patient is a child, the psychologist will also have a conversation with their parents about the child’s development, behaviors and more.

The next step is a comprehensive evaluation, which involves observation and direct interaction with the patient to see how they communicate, interact with others and more. This hands-on part of the assessment gives the professional a closer look at who the patient is and what signs and symptoms of ASD they may be experiencing.

The final step is normally a full evaluation of all the data and results that are produced from the initial screening, conversations and observations. This data will help inform the clinical psychologist on whether an ASD diagnosis is appropriate.

And, if it is, they can suggest a treatment plan that will help the patient gain the skills they need to live a happy and fulfilling life.

When Should Autism Tests Be Done?

If you suspect that your child might have autism, a good first step is to speak with their primary doctor and/or pediatrician. They will be able to discuss further some of the common signs and symptoms of autism, and whether the behaviors your child is exhibiting — and the milestones they are hitting or missing — should warrant further evaluation.

Generally speaking, the earlier an autism evaluation can be done, the better. That’s because research has shown that autism treatments are more effective if they are able to be administered from an early age.

In other words, by having your child accurately evaluated for autism, you’ll be setting them up for the best possible outcomes by getting a treatment plan started if an ASD diagnosis is given.

Trust Blue Gems ABA with Your Child’s ASD Diagnosis and Treatment

Online autism tests are great screening tools that parents can use to assess whether their child might have autism. To get a truly accurate diagnosis, though, it’s based to have a full in-person evaluation completed by trained mental health professionals.

At Blue Gems ABA, we have a team of in-house therapists who are trained in this well-regarded therapy, which helps children with autism gain the social, communication and life skills they need.

To learn more, please contact us today.