Quantitative Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (Q-CHAT)
Author of Tool:
Allison, C., Baron-Cohen, S. Wheelwright, S., Charman, T., Richler, J., Pasco, G. and Brayne, C.
Key references:
Allison, C., Baron-Cohen, S. Wheelwright, S., Charman, T., Richler, J., Pasco, G. and Brayne, C. (2008). The Q-CHAT (Quantitative CHecklist for Autism in Toddlers): A Normally Distributed Quantitative Measure of Autistic Traits at 18-24 Months of Age: Preliminary Report. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
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
Primary use / Purpose:
The Q-CHAT allows early detection of autism spectrum disorders, at 18-24 months of age. It is a quick measure containing 25 likert-type items describing behaviours a child may or may not engage in.
Background:
The Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (CHAT) was developed in 2001 to allow health professionals to “red flag” a case for further diagnostic assesment. The Q-CHAT is a modified version which can be completed by a parent and also has higher sensitivity. It includes additional items on language development, social communication and repetitive behaviours.
Psychometrics:
Psychometrics are discussed in Allison, Auyeung, and Baron-Cohen (2012).
Keywords:
Web link to tool:
Q-CHAT