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.
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.
