Assessment instruments for autism can be influenced by bias, affecting the accuracy and fairness of results. Here are key points to understand bias in autism assessments:
- Cultural Bias: Some tools may favor specific cultural norms, making it challenging to identify autism in diverse cultural backgrounds accurately.
- Gender Bias: Certain assessments focus on traits more common in males, potentially underdiagnosing autism in females or those who don’t fit traditional gender stereotypes.
- Language and Communication Bias: Instruments relying heavily on verbal or social skills may not capture challenges faced by individuals with limited speech or alternative communication methods.
- Sensory Bias: Some assessments may not consider sensory sensitivities, leading to an incomplete understanding of autism-related characteristics.
- Socioeconomic Bias: Factors like access to resources can influence assessments, resulting in disparities in diagnosis and support for individuals from different socioeconomic backgrounds.
To address bias, it’s crucial to adopt a comprehensive and inclusive evaluation approach. Goally, a tablet-based tool, can help address bias in autism assessment instruments by providing a comprehensive platform for children to develop essential life and language skills, including digital visual schedules, AAC, gamified learning, emotional regulation, executive functioning skills, and social skills training. It supports diverse learning styles and abilities, allowing children with autism to showcase their capabilities and bridging gaps that biased assessments may create.
This post was originally published on June 14, 2023. It was updated on July 18, 2023.
