News and Knowledge

In late August, Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center (SARRC) introduced a new version of its Think Autism mobile app. Formerly called Think Asperger’s, the app was developed for parents, educators, and medical professionals to use with children ages 8 to 13. Its main feature is the Social Challenges Screening Questionnaire, which parents and professionals can use to identify children who may have social challenges that were characterized as Asperger’s syndrome, previously a separate diagnostic label that is now classified in the DSM-5 as autism spectrum disorder.

Parents and caregivers answer a series of yes-or-no questions about their child’s social, language, and cognitive development. After completing the questionnaire, users see immediate results that can help them identify autistic traits that markedly affect the child’s functioning and overall wellbeing, but may be overlooked because their language has developed on time and there is no associated cognitive impairment. If a formal evaluation is needed, it is indicated in the results.

In addition to the questionnaire, the mobile app features:

• Fully vetted resources: The new update links to at least two agencies in every state.
• Informational videos: Users can watch videos that provide information about autism.

On its website, SARRC offers additional resources, including a Diagnostic Services Program, for those concerned about a child’s development.

The app is free and can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Sherri Alms is the freelance editor of The OARacle, a role she took on in 2007. She has been a freelance writer and editor for more than 20 years.