***Attention: this version does not include computerized scoring or online administration***

Instrument and objectives

The Screening Scale for Autism in Adults (SfA-A) is a multidisciplinary instrument which aims to assess symptoms associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in adults. It is a self-report measure consisting of 75 statements about behaviors and perceptions related to ASD. The SFA-A produces an overall score and detailed results on (1) Social Communication;
(2) Social Interaction; (3) Sensory Sensitivity; and (4) Restricted and Repetitive Patterns of Behavior, Interests, or Activities.

The Screening for Autism in Females Scale (SfA-F) was specifically developed to assess symptoms related to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in females. It is a self-report measurement instrument consisting of 34 statements about thoughts, behaviors and perceptions related to ASD, including characteristics more associated with presentation of the condition in females.

The results enable health professionals to have a detailed perspective on the challenges related to ASD. They also help to:
(1) Map the main ASD symptoms and systematically understand them;
(2) Complement the analysis with other instruments indicated to assess related demands;
(3) Guide personalized interventions based on the results; and
(4) Contribute to perform a differential diagnosis, ensuring greater precision
and effectiveness in case management.

Target audience

SfA-A, adults, aged between 18 and 78 years old, of both sexes. The statistical studies were conducted in 2023 and 2024 with 3,302 people, with education ranging from elementary school to postgraduate studies. Participants who indicated clinical conditions such as Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) were part of the sample.

SfA-F, adults who identify as female, aged between 18 and 89 years old. The statistical studies were conducted in 2023 and 2024, with 7,738 female individuals, with education ranging from elementary school to postgraduate studies. Respondents who indicated clinical conditions such as Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) were also part of the sample.

Aplicação
The SfA-A or SfA-F, must be administered individually. It can be applied in person or online. The respondent must read all the statements and indicate how much they agree with the statement on a scale of 1 to 5. It is not recommended to leave questions blank. There is no time limit for completion, but the respondent is expected to spend between 20-30 minutes. The instructions provided in this manual must be followed strictly to ensure validity in the interpretation of the results.

Kit Contents

1 SfA-A Manual

1 SfA-F Manual

5 SfA-A Application Protocols

5 SfA-F Application Protocols

Authors

Lucas Fortaleza
Louise Marques
Christopher Murray
J. Landeira-Fernandez
Luis Anunciacao