Autism Diagnostic Interview - Revised (ADI-R)

The Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised (ADI-R) is a semi-structured diagnostic interview used with parents or caregivers of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It can be used to assess both children and adults.

Features of the ADI-R

The ADI-R assesses 4 specific domains:

Ψ 3 functional domains

• Language or Communication

• Reciprocal Social Interactions

• Repetitive, Restricted and Stereotyped Behaviours and Interest

Ψ 1 diagnostic domain:

• Presence of Abnormality of Development Evident At or Before 36 months

For ASD, one criteria is that symptoms should appear early in development, so information obtained in the 4th domain will indicate if the child satisfies this criteria for ASD. General behavioural problems and clinically relevant behaviours (e.g., aggression, self-injury) are assessed as well.

How the ADI-R Informs a Diagnosis

Detailed descriptions of a child’s history and behaviours is useful for planning intervention and distinguishing ASD from other developmental disorders. However, while the ADI-R is an interview that aids in forming a picture of a child’s history and current functioning, it cannot be solely used to make a clinical diagnosis on whether an individual has ASD or not.

Therefore, in instances where an official diagnosis is required, we recommend using this in tandem with the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd edition (ADOS-2). The combination of ADI-R and ADOS-2 will allow for a comprehensive understanding of your child’s condition and what can be done to best support them moving forward.