Free Autism test for teens

Adolescence is a time of rapid change—socially, emotionally, and biologically. For autistic teenagers, the increasing complexity of teenage social "rules" can make traits that were manageable in childhood feel suddenly overwhelming.

This screening tool helps teenagers and their parents identify patterns of social communication and behavior that are characteristic of the autism spectrum.

How Autism Shows Up in Teens

• Social Masking: Teens may work incredibly hard to "mimic" their peers to fit in, leading to extreme exhaustion after school.
• Social Subtext: Difficulty understanding sarcasm, "flirting," or the unwritten rules of teenage friend groups.
• Sensory Overload: Loud hallways, bright fluorescent lights, or the smell of the cafeteria feeling physically painful.
• Intense Interests: Having a "special interest" that provides comfort and joy, but may make it harder to relate to the more varied interests of peers.
• Emotional Regulation: Experiencing "meltdowns" or "shutdowns" when social or sensory demands exceed their capacity.

The Importance of Support

Receiving an autism diagnosis (or identifying as autistic) during the teen years can be life-changing. It allows teens to move from "What's wrong with me?" to "How does my brain work?" This shift is vital for building self-esteem and finding a community that understands them.