Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2)

The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) is a standardised assessment tool that helps child psychologists diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children and adults. 

Unlike most psychometric tools listed on our site, the ADOS-2 is administered in the form of a semi-structured social setting for standardised behavioural observation and coding instead of a paper-and-pen tool or an electronic assessment. The ADOS-2 has standardised activities and questions, such as planned social activities, which includes events where social situations, communication and certain types of behaviours are likely to appear. These provide our child psychologist with a good opportunity to observe behaviours that are directly relevant to an ASD diagnosis.

The ADOS-2 has 5 modules and is suitable for children, adolescents, and adults. Each module takes 40 to 60 minutes to complete and an individual only goes through one module. The module is chosen based on the individual’s communication level and age. 

Ψ Toddler Module - for children between 12 to 30 months who do not consistently use phrase speech 
Ψ Module 1 - for children above 31 months who do not consistently use phrase speech
Ψ Module 2 - for children of any age who use phrase speech but are not verbally fluent 
Ψ Module 3 - for verbally fluent children and young adolescents 
Ψ Module 4 - for verbally fluent older adolescents and adults

These modules are similar in that they assess communication, social interaction, play, and restricted and repetitive behaviours. By observing and coding these behaviours, information can be attained for diagnosis by a child psychologist, management planning with a collaborative approach with our child therapists (psychologist, speech therapist, occupational therapist), and educational placement.