The Autism Spectrum Disorders - Adult (ASD-A) is an assessment battery designed to assess symptoms of autism, comorbid psychopathology, and problem behaviors.

The diagnostic measure, the Autism Spectrum Disorders - Diagnosis for Adults (ASD-DA), consists of 31 items that assesses the core symptoms of autism in adults. Each item is rated as (0) not different, no impairment or (1) different, some impairment, by a parent/caretaker. Sample items include, 'limited number of interests'; 'responds to other's distress'; 'verbal communication'; 'maintains eye contact'; and 'isolates self.'

The Autism Spectrum Disorders - Comorbidity for Adults (ASD-CA), consists of 37 items loading on to one of 5 empirically derived subscales. The subscales are: Anxiety/Repetitive Behaviors, Conduct Problems, Depressive Symptoms, Irritability/Behavioral Excesses, and Attention/Hyperactivity/Impulsivity. These items are rated as either (0) not different, no impairment or (1) different, some impairment by parent/caretaker. Sample items include, 'ordering of objects for no apparent reason or to reduce stress'; 'interrupts the activities of others'; 'easily becomes upset'; 'concentration problem'; and 'tearful or weepy.'

The Autism Spectrum Disorders - Behavior Problem for Adults (ASD-BPA) contains 19 items and consists of 4 subscales that were derived by factor analysis: Aggression/Destruction, Stereotypy, Self-Injurious Behavior (SIB), and Disruptive Behavior. Items are rated as either (0) not a problem or impairment, not at all or (1) some problem or impairment. Instructions state that each item should be rated to the extent that it is a recent problem. Sample items include, 'kicking objects'; 'ripping clothes'; 'playing with saliva'; 'unusual play with objects'; 'harming self by hitting, pinching, scratching, etc.'; and 'removal of clothing at inappropriate times.'

References:

Matson, J.L., Terlonge, C., & González, M.L. (2006). Autism Spectrum Disorders – Behavior Problems – Adult Version. Baton Rouge, LA: Disability Consultants, LLC.

Matson, J.L., Terlonge, C., & González, M.L. (2006). Autism Spectrum Disorders – Comorbidity – Adult Version. Baton Rouge, LA: Disability Consultants, LLC.

Matson, J.L., Terlonge, C., & González, M.L. (2006). Autism Spectrum Disorders – Diagnosis – Adult Version. Baton Rouge, LA: Disability Consultants, LLC.