This page offers a way to explore autistic traits in adults. We were inspired by the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ) and the Aspie Quiz. Unlike most online autism tests, this version is designed so you can reflect on someone else — a friend, colleague, or partner — whose communication style or behaviour you’d like to understand better. So, it is not a diagnostic tool, but it can help you recognise signs of autism and to better support someone with neurodiversity in everyday life.
Autism Observation (AO-52) — Friend/Partner/Colleague
Please answer based on what you usually observe. Choose one option in each row. “Don’t know” won’t affect the score.
| Question | Definitely disagree | Slightly disagree | Don’t know | Slightly agree | Definitely agree |
|---|
Scoring and interpretation
This autism screening questionnaire has not been scientifically validated, so it should not be used for diagnosis. Autism exists on a wide spectrum: it can give exceptional focus, creativity, and deep knowledge, or result in challenges with flexibility, social energy, or sensory overwhelm. Many autistic adults are high-achievers, loyal partners, and caring friends. But no doubt, many autists experience the world differently than normies do.
Research suggests that autistic people often find it easier to connect with each other. That is why increased mutual understanding between autistic and non-autistic individuals makes communication and relationships better. The best insight into how to communicate or offer support will always come from the person themselves — every individual is far more than any label.
Note: These questionnaires are friends and colleagues autism screening tools, not diagnostic tests. Whether or not someone seeks a diagnosis, respect, honesty, and kindness go further than labels.
So what next — supporting someone who may be autistic
If you believe a friend, colleague, or partner may be autistic, the most helpful approach is to start an open, respectful conversation. Avoid making assumptions or giving labels. Instead, share curiosity and information. You might say: “I found this autism traits quiz and it reminded me of how differently people think and communicate”. Begin by sharing with them our autism self-screening test.
If you want to learn more, a trusted, evidence-based place to learn more is the Embrace Autism website, which was created by autistic researchers and educators. For self-assessment, the Aspie Quiz explores five key domains of autistic traits: Talent, Perception, Communication, Relationships, and Social.
Learning to support each other
Autism is part of human diversity — and mutual understanding benefits everyone. If we learn more about neurodiversity and autism acceptance, friends, families, and workplaces can help create environments where both autistic and non-autistic people thrive. Then, when we understand our sensory differences and communication styles, we can reduce stress and build genuine connection.
Autism and workplace inclusion
- Lexxic Neurodiversity Training — professional online courses and workshops to build inclusive, autism-friendly workplaces.
- Auticon Academy — training and consultancy from autistic professionals on collaboration and neuro-inclusion.
- Neurodiversity Hub — free employer toolkits and best-practice guides for inclusive education and employment.
Friends and family support for autistic adults
- Spectrum Women — first-hand perspectives on autism, relationships, and boundaries from autistic women.
- Tony Attwood — accessible books and talks to help partners and parents understand adult autism.
Understanding autism and neurodiversity
- Embrace Autism — evidence-based articles about autism traits, masking, and communication.
- NeuroClastic — an autistic-run publication sharing real stories, and advice from the neurodiversity community.
Not all of these resources will fit every situation. Autism is a wide and varied spectrum. Every person is unique, with their own personality, intelligence, environment, and support network. Therefore, learning more about autism can help you become a better ally, colleague, friend, or partner. And make our shared spaces more inclusive for everyone.


