Chapter 1: Overview of ADI-R

The Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) is an essential assessment tool for individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This structured diagnostic process helps differentiate autism from various other developmental conditions. The ADI-R evaluates three primary behavioral traits: the quality of social interactions, communication and language abilities, and repetitive, restricted, or stereotyped interests and behaviors. All individuals with ASD exhibit these traits in varying degrees.

Quality of social interaction evaluates the capacity to form relationships, emotional exchanges, and social placements. Communication and language focus on both verbal and non-verbal expressions. Additionally, the assessment of repetitive behaviors looks at atypical mannerisms and sensory sensitivities.

For those seeking further information and training on effectively implementing this tool, the New York-Presbyterian Center for Autism and Developing Brain provides valuable insights into intervention strategies, training requirements, and evidence-based practices.

Clinicians administering the ADI-R must be well-versed in its protocols and manuals. Typically, a qualified professional conducts the assessment in a standardized interview format with the caregiver or parent, lasting around 2–3 hours. Throughout this session, 93 items are discussed, concentrating on the three main behavioral characteristics to gather crucial information for initiating treatment.

ADI-R can be utilized for individuals as young as two years old. The purpose of the interview is to collect data from caregivers who are seeking assistance for their children with ASD. Rutter, LeCouteur, and Lord (2003, 2008) emphasize that training is crucial for clinicians using this tool, which may range from a brief two-day workshop to extensive reliability training with the original authors. In specialized clinics and research environments, trainees often conduct the ADI-R under the close supervision of an ASD expert, honing their diagnostic skills.

It is important to note that the ADI-R is an interview rather than a conventional test. Its aim is to categorize behaviors and apply scoring scales to facilitate treatment planning. When the ADI-R findings are combined with the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), they yield excellent predictive outcomes, often referred to as "The Gold Standard" in autism classification (Rutter, LeCouteur, and Lord, 2003, 2008). The classification of autism is based on scores from all three assessed categories.