Adaptation of autism spectrum screening questionnaire (ASSQ) for use in Georgian school settings

Purpose Even though 95% of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), live in low- and middle-income countries, there is a dearth studies from these the Republic Georgia. Several ASD screening tools are available, but few validated for use Georgian or other smaller countries. This study aims to adapt validate questionnaire (ASSQ) Design/methodology/approach The ASSQ was administered all third-grade students 402 schools five main cities, n = 27,336. Prior use, 27-item translated, back-translated adapted A total 16,556 (approximately 61%) were assessed by parent and/or teacher. Optimal cutoff scores estimated. Randomly chosen who screened positive ( 173) negative 127) offered comprehensive assessment using standardized diagnostic procedures. Findings Data 15,510 parents- 13,517 teachers-administered revealed statistically significant differences median between parents teachers: 7 versus 4 9 6, respectively. Cutoff score 14, on either teacher ASSQ, had sensitivity 0.94, indicating that it can be used school settings. Originality/value adaptation creates opportunity further research, while also providing valid tool clinicians. Georgia will add growing understanding broader phenotype.