Autism Diagnosis DSM-5 | Cadabam’s Child Development Center
If you have been wondering whether your child’s communication style or play habits point toward autism, understanding the autism diagnosis in DSM-5 is the first step toward clarity and support. At Cadabams CDC, we turn the official criteria into everyday language, so you feel informed, empowered, and never alone.
Why Choose Our DSM-5 Autism Diagnostic Services
Gold-standard assessment tools
We use instruments recognized worldwide—such as ADOS-2 and ADI-R—to ensure every conclusion is evidence-based and reliable.
Multidisciplinary expert team
Our panel includes child psychologists, developmental paediatricians, speech and occupational therapists, and special educators who review every case together.
Child-friendly environment
From sensory-calming rooms to play-based tasks, the centre is designed to keep children relaxed and engaged throughout the evaluation.
Understanding DSM-5 Autism Diagnostic Criteria
Core domains: social communication
- Difficulty with back-and-forth conversation
- Limited sharing of interests or emotions
- Trouble understanding gestures, facial expressions, or tone of voice
Restricted & repetitive behaviors
- Hand-flapping, lining up toys, or extreme adherence to routines
- Unusual reactions to sensory input (e.g., covering ears to everyday sounds)
- Highly focused interests that are intense in nature
Severity level classification
- Level 1 – Requiring support
- Level 2 – Substantial support
- Level 3 – Very substantial support
Our clinicians explain where your child falls and what each level means for daily life.
Our Step-by-Step Autism Diagnostic Process
Initial developmental screening
A short questionnaire and quick interaction to determine if a full evaluation is recommended.
Comprehensive clinical interview
We gather detailed developmental history, school reports, and family observations.
Standardized assessment tools
- Direct testing with the child
- Parent questionnaires and video reviews
- Teacher or caregiver feedback forms
Feedback & diagnosis sharing
Within one week, we meet with parents to discuss findings, answer questions, and outline next steps.
Assessment Tools We Use for Autism Diagnosis
ADOS-2 evaluation
Structured play and conversation tasks that measure social communication and restricted behaviors.
ADI-R structured interview
An in-depth interview covering early development, language, and social milestones.
Cognitive & adaptive testing
IQ and daily-living skills assessments to capture strengths and challenges beyond autism symptoms.
Medical & genetic screenings
Rule-out hearing issues, sleep disorders, or genetic conditions that can mimic or co-occur with autism.
Signs Your Child May Need an Autism Evaluation
Social communication red flags
- Not responding to name by 12 months
- Limited eye contact or shared smiles
- No pointing or showing objects by 18 months
Behavioral patterns to watch
- Lining up toys in exact order and becoming upset if moved
- Extreme distress at small changes in routine
- Hand-flapping or spinning lasting several minutes
Age-specific milestones delays
- 12 months: No babbling or gestures
- 24 months: No two-word phrases
- 36 months: Minimal pretend play or peer interaction
What to Expect During the Diagnosis Appointment
Duration and structure
- Total time: 2.5–3 hours split into child-friendly blocks with snack breaks
- Parents: First hour for interview, last 30 minutes for feedback
- Child: Play-based tasks and table-top activities
Parent interview details
We ask about pregnancy, early milestones, family history, and day-to-day challenges.
Child interaction observations
Therapists engage your child in games, storytelling, and conversation while noting communication style and sensory responses.
Post-Diagnosis Support & Next Steps
Individualized intervention planning
A tailored plan covering speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavior strategies.
Family guidance sessions
Monthly caregiver workshops on communication techniques, behavior management, and sibling support.
School collaboration support
We draft IEP or 504-plan goals, train teachers, and schedule classroom observations to ensure consistency.