What Questions Are Asked in Autism ADI‑R?

PostedNovember 12, 2025

UpdatedNovember 12, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

The ADI-R interview questions are designed to explore a person’s early development, communication style and social behaviours. The Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) is a structured conversation, typically with a parent or caregiver, that focuses on identifying patterns consistent with autism. The questions help clinicians build a detailed understanding of behaviour across time.

What Topics Do ADI-R Questions Cover?

Here’s a closer look at the focus of ADI-R interview questions:

Developmental History

Many questions focus on developmental history, such as when the child began speaking, how they played as a toddler or how they responded to social attention. Clinicians ask about milestones like first words, pretend play and reaction to unfamiliar people.

Symptom Checklist

The ADI-R includes a comprehensive symptom checklist, asking about behaviours like repetitive movements, restricted interests, and difficulties in two-way conversation. Caregivers are asked to provide examples of these behaviours and when they first noticed them.

Diagnostic Inquiry

The questions also form part of a broader diagnostic inquiry, where clinicians explore how behaviours have changed over time, whether they occur in multiple settings and how they compare to typical development. Responses are scored and analysed to determine if the pattern meets diagnostic criteria for autism.

In short, ADI-R interview questions guide a deep exploration of social, communicative and behavioural development. For professional assessments led by trained clinicians, visit providers like Autism Detect for support.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Autism Diagnostic Tools (e.g., ADI-R, ADOS-2).

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.