Synapl.
ADOS-2Autism Spectrumpaid

Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition

Gold-standard semi-structured observation for ASD diagnosis across the lifespan.

FDA

Overview

The ADOS-2 is a semi-structured, standardized assessment of communication, social interaction, play, and restricted and repetitive behaviors. It is considered a gold-standard observational instrument for autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan, comprising five modules tailored to developmental level and language ability.

Use cases

Diagnostic confirmation in clinical trials, multi-site research consortia, and specialty autism clinics.

Assessment intelligence

Score range
0 – 28
Direction
Higher = worse
Scoring method
Algorithm
Time to score
~45 min
Subscales
  • Social Affect
    0-20
  • Restricted/Repetitive Behavior
    0-8
Cutoff thresholds & interpretation
SeverityThresholdInterpretation
Non-spectrumComparison 1-3Symptoms not on the autism spectrum
ASDComparison 4-5Low to moderate autism symptoms
AutismComparison 6-10High autism symptoms

Module is chosen based on expressive language. Comparison score allows cross-module comparison.

Editorial notes

Strong inter-rater reliability and discriminant validity established across multiple international samples; sensitivity ~90% and specificity ~80% in research settings.

Available languages

EnglishSpanishFrenchGermanJapaneseMandarin ChinesePortugueseItalian

Validation studies (2)

  • Standardized ADOS-2 algorithms for toddlers
    Luyster R, Gotham K, et al. · Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders · 2009
    DOI: 10.1007/s10803-009-0746-z
  • Sensitivity and specificity of the ADOS-2 in research settings
    Lord C, Rutter M, et al. · Western Psychological Services Monograph · 2012
    DOI: 10.1037/t40006-000

Related assessments

CARS-2
Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition

Clinician rating of autism severity, with a high-functioning variant.

M-CHAT-R/F
Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up

Two-stage parent-report autism screener for toddlers.

SRS-2
Social Responsiveness Scale, Second Edition

Quantitative rating of autistic social impairment, lifespan coverage.

ADI-R
Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised

Standardized parent interview pairing with ADOS-2 for ASD diagnosis.

RAADS-R
RAADS-R TEST

The Ritvo Autism Asperger Diagnostic Scale – Revised (RAADS-R) is an 80-item self-report questionnaire designed to identify autism in adults (18 years or older). Developed by Ritvo et al. (2011) as a revision of the original RAADS, it was created to address the growing need for validated assessment tools specifically designed for adult populations, where autism presentations may differ from those typically seen in childhood.