Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised

Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R)

The Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) is a structured interview used for diagnosing autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and planning treatment. It is one of the most widely used diagnostic tools in both clinical and research settings. The ADI-R is designed to assess the presence and severity of autism symptoms in individuals from early childhood to adulthood.

Overview

The ADI-R is a comprehensive interview conducted with the parents or caregivers of individuals suspected of having autism. It focuses on three main areas:

• Language and Communication: This section evaluates the individual's verbal and non-verbal communication skills, including the use of language, ability to initiate and sustain conversations, and understanding of non-verbal cues.

• Reciprocal Social Interactions: This area assesses the individual's ability to engage in social interactions, including eye contact, facial expressions, and the ability to form peer relationships.

• Restricted, Repetitive, and Stereotyped Behaviors and Interests: This section examines the presence of repetitive behaviors, restricted interests, and adherence to routines.

Administration

The ADI-R is administered by a trained clinician and typically takes between 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete. The interview consists of 93 items, and the responses are scored based on the presence and severity of symptoms. The scores are then used to determine whether the individual meets the criteria for an autism spectrum disorder.

Scoring and Interpretation

The ADI-R provides a diagnostic algorithm that aligns with the criteria for autism as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The scores are divided into three domains: communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors. A cut-off score is used to determine the likelihood of an autism diagnosis.

Reliability and Validity

The ADI-R is considered a reliable and valid tool for diagnosing autism. It has been extensively tested and is widely used in both clinical practice and research. The interview's structured format ensures consistency in administration and scoring, contributing to its reliability.

Limitations

While the ADI-R is a valuable tool, it has some limitations. It relies on the accuracy of the information provided by parents or caregivers, which can be influenced by recall bias. Additionally, the ADI-R may not capture the full range of symptoms in individuals with milder forms of autism or those with significant intellectual disabilities.

Also see

• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule
• Childhood Autism Rating Scale
• Pervasive Developmental Disorder