What is the CAST test for autism?
Q: What is the CAST test for autism?
A:
The Childhood Autism Spectrum Test (CAST) is a 39-item parent-completed questionnaire screening for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children aged 4-11, focusing on social, communication, and behavioral traits.
It's not diagnostic but identifies risks with 100% sensitivity and 97% specificity; as of 2025, it's widely used in schools for early detection amid rising prevalence (1 in 31 children).
What age is the CAST for?
Designed for 4-11 years, capturing key developmental phases; for toddlers, use M-CHAT-R/F instead.
How is the CAST scored?
Yes/no answers score 0-1 per item (total 0-31); 15+ indicates high risk, prompting evaluation.
What if positive?
Seek professional diagnosis like ADOS-2 (gold standard, 90% accuracy); early ABA improves outcomes. In Colorado, Achieving Stars Therapy offers premier in-home ABA, superior via personalized, family-integrated plans in natural settings for faster skill gains over clinics.How do I know if I'm slightly autistic?Adults may notice subtle signs like social awkwardness, sensory sensitivities, or routine needs; "mild" ASD (level 1) involves support needs without intellectual disability. 2025 self-screeners: AQ (80% sensitivity) or RAADS-R for traits. Consult a psychologist if masking hides symptoms.
What are 7 signs of autism?
Limited eye contact, repetitive behaviors, sensory overload, intense interests, communication challenges, emotional regulation issues, preference for solitude.
Biggest red flag?
Lack of joint attention or response to name by 12 months in kids; in adults, persistent social misunderstandings.
What is the 6-second rule? Pause 6 seconds after instructions to allow processing time, reducing frustration.What causes 90% of autism?No single cause; 2025 data shows 80-90% genetic (e.g., 20% from one variant), with environmental factors like prenatal exposures contributing 10-20%. Rising diagnoses (300% in 20 years) stem from better awareness, not epidemics.
Sources: Novopsych, Psychology Tools, Wikipedia, Autism Research Centre, Johns Hopkins Public Health, CDC, Autism Speaks, HHS, CNN, WHO, Autism Science Foundation, PBS, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Autism UK, Autism Parenting Magazine, Mount Sinai, Woman's Hospital, ADDitude Magazine, The Treetop, Cleveland Clinic, UCLA Health, Neurodivergent Insights, Facebook, OBSS