Below is a set of 20 questions divided into three sections. This tool was designed as a reflective aid, inspired by clinical frameworks like the DSM-5 and instruments such as the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ). It isn’t a formal diagnostic test but rather a guide to help you explore aspects of your neurodiversity. You can use it to gain insights into your personal profile and identify areas where you might benefit from further support or reflection.

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Instructions

For each question below, answer “Yes” if the statement resonates with your experience, or “No” if it does not. Once you’ve completed the test, tally your “Yes” responses in each section to see which areas—social communication, repetitive behaviors, or sensory/emotional processing—are most prominent for you.

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Section 1: Social Communication and Interaction​

1. Difficulty Initiating Conversations:
   Do you find it difficult to initiate or maintain conversations, especially with people you don't know well?

2. Interpreting Non-Verbal Cues:
   Do you struggle to interpret non-verbal cues such as gestures and facial expressions?

3. Understanding Figurative Language:
   Do you have trouble understanding sarcasm, irony, or metaphors?

4. Preference for Solitude:
   Do you prefer spending time alone or engaging in solitary activities rather than participating in social events?

5. Emotional Expression:
   Do you find it challenging to express or identify your own emotions or the emotions of others?

6. Attention to Detail Over the Big Picture:
   Do you tend to focus on details that others might overlook, sometimes losing sight of the bigger picture?

7. Written Over Verbal Communication:
   Do you prefer communicating through written means (such as texting) rather than face-to-face interactions?

8. Interpreting Others’ Intentions:
   Do you find it difficult to interpret the intentions or motivations behind other people's actions?

9. Social Anxiety with Strangers:
   Do social interactions, especially with unfamiliar people, cause you anxiety or confusion?

10. Direct Expression of Opinions:
    Do you tend to express your opinions in a direct manner, even if it might seem unusual to others?

11. Understanding Implicit Social Norms:
    Do you struggle to understand implicit social norms without explicit explanations?

Section 2: Repetitive Behaviors and Routines

1. Preference for Routine:
   Do you prefer having a set daily routine and feel uncomfortable when unexpected changes occur?

2. Intense Focus on Interests:
   Are you intensely passionate about certain topics or activities to the point of becoming overly focused on them?

3. Comfort in Repetition:
   Do you find comfort in repeating specific rituals or behaviors?

4. Anxiety with Disrupted Routines:
   Do you feel uncomfortable or anxious when your routine is disrupted by unexpected changes?

5. Need for Clear Structure:
   Do you feel more secure when rules and expectations are clearly defined and structured?

6. Distinctive Interests:
   Do you feel that your interests or ways of thinking differ significantly from what is considered “conventional”?

Section 3: Sensory Processing and Emotional Intensity

1. Sensitivity to Sensory Stimuli:
   Are you especially sensitive to sensory stimuli such as loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures?

2. Overwhelm in Stimulating Environments:
   Do you feel overwhelmed in environments with high sensory stimulation, like crowded events or noisy places?

3. Intense Emotional Responses:
   Do you perceive that your emotional responses are more intense compared to those of people around you?

Scoring & Reflection

• Step 1: Answer “Yes” or “No” for each question.

• Step 2: Tally the number of “Yes” responses in each section.

• Step 3: Reflect on your scores:

  • Section 1: A high number of “Yes” answers may indicate challenges in social communication and interaction.

  • Section 2: A higher score suggests a strong preference for routines and repetitive behaviors.

  • Section 3: A significant number of “Yes” responses may point to heightened sensory sensitivity and emotional intensity.

This tool is intended as a starting point for self-reflection. While it draws on established clinical criteria and research, it is not a substitute for a formal diagnosis. It can, however, help you gain clarity on your neurodiverse profile and guide you in seeking additional support if needed.

Feel free to use this test as part of your personal journey, and remember that your experience is unique. Your results are just one piece of the puzzle in understanding your neurodiversity.