CARS - Childhood Autism Rating Scale

Behavioral Rating Scale

The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) is a behavior observation tool used to identify children with autism and determine the severity of symptoms. It consists of 15 items evaluating various behaviors.

Instructions: Rate each of the 15 items based on the child's behavior. Select the score that best describes the child.

1.1. Relating to People

2.2. Imitation

3.3. Emotional Response

4.4. Body Use

5.5. Object Use

6.6. Adaptation to Change

7.7. Visual Response

8.8. Listening Response

9.9. Taste, Smell, and Touch Response and Use

10.10. Fear or Nervousness

11.11. Verbal Communication

12.12. Nonverbal Communication

13.13. Activity Level

14.14. Level and Consistency of Intellectual Response

15.15. General Impressions

ℹ️About CARS

The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) is a behavior observation tool used to identify children with autism and determine the severity of symptoms. It consists of 15 items evaluating various behaviors.

📖About the CARS Scale

The Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) is a behavior observation tool used to identify children with autism and determine severity of symptoms. It consists of 15 items evaluating various behaviors, providing a quantitative score.

🎯When to Use

  • Screening for autism in children over 2 years old
  • Assessing severity of autism spectrum symptoms
  • Monitoring behavioral changes over time
  • Distiguising autism from other developmental delays

Benefits

Assesses behavior across 15 domains
Differentiates mild/moderate from severe autism
Combines parent reports and direct observation
Widely recognized and validated tool

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Is this a diagnosis?

No. The CARS score indicates the likelihood and severity of autism spectrum symptoms but is not a definitive medical diagnosis. A comprehensive evaluation by a specialist is required.

Q:Who can administer CARS?

It is designed to be used by trained professionals (psychologists, doctors, special educators) who have observed the child, though parents can use it to structure their observations.

Q:What is the age range?

It is most effective for children over 2 years of age.