Childhood Autism Spectrum Test CAST

Childhood Autism Spectrum Test CAST overview

Creator and Context

The Childhood Autism Spectrum Test (CAST), formerly known as the Childhood Asperger’s Syndrome Test, is a parent-reported questionnaire designed to identify autism spectrum symptoms in children. Comprising 39 items, this test uses simple 'yes' or 'no' responses to evaluate behavioural and developmental characteristics associated with autism spectrum disorders.

Developed by the Autism Research Centre (ARC) at the University of Cambridge, the CAST was designed to be a practical and accessible tool for early screening of autism spectrum conditions. Its development reflects a broader effort to enhance early detection and intervention in autism research and care.

Presenting Conditions

The CAST assesses behaviours and traits typically associated with autism spectrum disorders, such as social and communication difficulties, repetitive behaviors, and atypical interests.

Administration

The CAST is a self-administered questionnaire for parents or primary caregivers. It can be completed without the need for professional training, making it an accessible tool for preliminary assessment.

Desired Audience

The test is intended for use with children aged between 4 and 11 years. It is particularly useful for parents who may have concerns about their child's developmental patterns and behaviours.

Pratical Application

Practical Application

While the CAST provides valuable insights into a child's behaviour, it is not a diagnostic tool. Results should be used as a preliminary step in seeking further professional evaluation if autism spectrum conditions are suspected.

Considerations

  • The CAST is a screening tool, not a definitive diagnostic assessment.

  • Cultural and environmental factors may influence responses and should be taken into account.

  • Professional follow-up is recommended for children who score above the threshold.

How to score the Childhood Autism Spectrum Test CAST

Conducting the assessment

Parents answer the 39 questions with 'yes' or 'no', reflecting their child’s usual behaviour. The questionnaire can typically be completed in a short period and does not require any medical or psychological expertise.

Interpretation

The CAST uses a straightforward scoring system based on the number of 'yes' responses. A higher score suggests a greater likelihood of autism spectrum traits, guiding the need for further professional assessment. Scores from 0 - 31, with typically anything above 15 indicating possible ASD or related social-communication difficulties.

Clinical Considerations

  • Use the CAST as a first step in identifying children who may benefit from a detailed developmental and behavioural evaluation.

  • Discuss the results with healthcare professionals to determine the next steps.

  • Consider the child’s overall developmental context when interpreting the results.

Childhood Autism Spectrum Test CAST use cases

  • Early screening in primary care or educational settings.

  • Guiding parents in seeking further professional assessment.

  • Research studies into early signs and prevalence of autism spectrum conditions.

Category

Autism

Research Summary

  • Williams, J., Scott, F., Stott, C., et al. (2005). The CAST (Childhood Asperger Syndrome Test): Preliminary development of a UK screen for mainstream primary-school children. Autism, 9(1), 45-68.

  • Allison, C., Auyeung, B., Baron-Cohen, S. (2012). Toward brief "Red Flags" for autism screening: The Short Autism Spectrum Quotient and the Short Quantitative Checklist in 1,000 cases and 3,000 controls. Journal of the American Acad of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 51(2), 202-212.e7.

Other Assessment Guides

Other Assessment Guides

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St Kilda, Melbourne

We acknowledge the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first inhabitants of this nation and the traditional custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work.

United Kingdom

St Johns Court, Chester

Follow our socials

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