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Early screening for autism spectrum disorders: update on the modified checklist for autism in toddlers and other

Diana L Robins1, Thyde M Dumont-Mathieu

  • 1Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA. drobins@gsu.edu

Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics : JDBP
|May 11, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Early detection of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) requires effective screening in young children. This review highlights screening levels and scope, focusing on the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) and its follow-up interview for improved accuracy.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Child Psychology
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder Research

Background:

  • Early detection of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is crucial for timely intervention.
  • Screening tools for very young children are essential for identifying developmental risks.
  • Two key screening considerations are the level (unselected vs. at-risk samples) and scope (broad vs. disorder-specific).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review screening issues in early autism detection.
  • To evaluate various screening instruments, including broad developmental and autism-specific tools.
  • To detail the development and utility of the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT).

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on autism screening tools.
  • Categorization of instruments by screening level (Level I and Level II) and scope (broad vs. autism-specific).
  • Examination of the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) development and application.

Main Results:

  • Several broad developmental and autism-specific screening tools were reviewed.
  • The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) is a versatile Level I and Level II screening instrument.
  • A structured follow-up interview for the M-CHAT effectively reduces false positives.

Conclusions:

  • Effective screening is vital for early intervention in autism spectrum disorders.
  • The M-CHAT, particularly with its follow-up interview, represents a valuable tool for autism screening in young children.
  • Continued research and clinical application of validated screening tools like the M-CHAT are important for improving early detection rates.

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