• Ages: 2 and up
• Testing Time: Varies
• CARS - Manual, 25 Rating Scales forms (1988)

This 15-item behavior rating scale identifies children with autism and distinguishes them from developmentally handicapped children who are not autistic. Each item covers a particular characteristic, ability, or behavior. The examiner rates the child on each item following observation of the child and examination of relevant information from parent reports and other records. Using a 7-point scale, the clinician indicates the degree to which the child's behavior deviates from that of a normal child of the same age. Scores in the autistic range fall into two categories: mild to moderate and severe autism.