Psych LiveWire
Autism Diagnostic Interview - Revised (ADI-R), by Michael Rutter, MD FRS, Ann LeCouteur, MBBS and Catherine Lord, PhD
Purpose: To assess individuals suspected of having autism
Candidates: 2+ years of age
Administration: 1.5--2.5 hours
Used in research for decades, the ADI-R provides a thorough assessment of individuals suspected of having autism or other autism spectrum disorders. It has proven highly useful for formal diagnosis as well as treatment and educational planning. Composed of 93 items, the ADI-R focuses on three functional domains:
- Language and Communication
- Reciprocal Social Interactions
- Restricted, Repetitive, and Stereotyped Behaviours and Interests
Interview questions address the child's background, behaviour, early development, language acquisition, current functioning, social development, and other clinically relevant issues, such as aggression, self-injury, and possible epileptic features. To administer the ADI-R, an experienced interviewer, following highly standardised procedures, questions a parent or caregiver.
Results are scored and interpreted using a Diagnostic Algorithm, a Current Behaviour Algorithm, or both, depending on the purpose of the evaluation. Typically, administration and scoring require from 1.5 to 2.5 hours. The interview can be used to assess both children and adults, as long as their mental ages are above 2 years, 0 months.
Because the ADI-R is an interview rather than a test, and because it focuses on behaviours that are rare in non-affected individuals, it provides neither scales nor norms. Results can be used to support a diagnosis of autism or to determine the clinical needs of various groups in which a high rate of autism spectrum disorders might be expected. The ADI-R has proven very effective in differentiating autism from other developmental disorders and in assessing syndrome boundaries, identifying new subgroups, and quantifying autistic symptomatology.
For further information about ADI-R or to order, visit ACER's online shop at ADI-R or contact ACER's Customer Service team at t: 1800 338 402 | +61 3 9277 5447 | e: sales@acer.edu.au