QASP-S Autism Exam Prep practice questions and answers 2026. Tap an option to test yourself — you'll see the correct answer and a plain-English explanation for every question. Free, no login.
Q21According to the DSM-5, which of the following is NOT one of the two core domains for diagnosing Autism Spectrum Disorder?
✓ Correct answer: D. Intellectual impairment
The DSM-5 condensed the diagnostic criteria into two core domains: (1) persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, and (2) restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Intellectual impairment is a potential co-occurring condition, not a core diagnostic domain.
Q22Which change occurred in the transition from DSM-IV to DSM-5 regarding autism diagnosis?
✓ Correct answer: C. Separate diagnostic categories were consolidated into a single Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis
In DSM-5, the separate diagnoses (Autistic Disorder, Asperger's Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, and PDD-NOS) were consolidated under a single umbrella diagnosis called Autism Spectrum Disorder, with varying levels of severity.
Q23According to the CDC, which of the following is considered a risk factor for autism spectrum disorder?
✓ Correct answer: B. Advanced parental age
Advanced parental age (both maternal and paternal) is recognized by the CDC as a risk factor for autism spectrum disorder. Having older parents increases the likelihood of genetic mutations that may contribute to autism.
Q24Which of the following represents a typical developmental milestone for an 18-month-old child?
✓ Correct answer: A. Points to objects of interest
Pointing to objects of interest is a typical developmental milestone that emerges around 12-18 months. The absence of pointing behaviors by 18 months is often considered a potential red flag for autism spectrum disorder.
Q25Which of the following comorbidities has the highest prevalence rate among individuals with autism spectrum disorder?
✓ Correct answer: D. Intellectual disability
Intellectual disability is one of the most common comorbidities in autism spectrum disorder, affecting approximately 31-40% of individuals with ASD according to recent CDC data.
Q26Which of the following statements accurately describes the current CDC prevalence estimate of autism spectrum disorder in children?
✓ Correct answer: C. Approximately 1 in 36 children (2.8%)
According to recent CDC data, the prevalence of autism is approximately 1 in 36 children (2.8%), which represents a significant increase from earlier estimates and highlights the importance of awareness and early intervention.
Q27Which atypical developmental pattern is most concerning for possible autism spectrum disorder in a 2-year-old child?
✓ Correct answer: B. Loss of previously acquired language skills
Regression or loss of previously acquired language skills is considered a significant red flag for autism spectrum disorder, typically occurring between 15-24 months of age in some children with ASD.
Q28According to the DSM-5, severity levels for autism spectrum disorder are based on which two domains?
✓ Correct answer: A. Social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors
The DSM-5 specifies three severity levels (requiring support, requiring substantial support, requiring very substantial support) based on the two core domains: social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors.
Q29Which screening tool is specifically designed for toddlers (16-30 months) to identify risk for autism spectrum disorder?
✓ Correct answer: D. M-CHAT-R/F (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up)
The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F) is specifically designed to screen toddlers between 16-30 months of age for autism risk and is widely used in primary care settings.
Q30Which statement about the gender ratio in autism spectrum disorder is most accurate based on current CDC data?
✓ Correct answer: C. ASD is diagnosed approximately 4 times more often in males than females
Current CDC data consistently shows that autism is diagnosed more frequently in males than females, with a ratio of approximately 4:1, though this gap may be narrowing as diagnostic practices improve for identifying autism in females.
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