Autism and developmental assessment
Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition (CARS-2)
Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition (CARS-2) — administration and scoring reference.
Reference information · Official-form reference
- Last content update
- 2026-10-26
- Clinical review
- Not independently reviewed
- Source jurisdiction
- See individual sources
- Coverage
- Official-form reference
| Field | Instrument context |
|---|---|
| Version | CARS-2; Standard or High-Functioning form |
| Population | Children/adolescents; verify age range for selected form |
| Respondent | Clinician |
| Purpose | Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition (CARS-2) — administration and scoring reference. |
Administration
Choose the appropriate CARS-2 form using the manual and integrate direct observation with the relevant history.
Scoring method
Anchored observed behavior ratings summed; standard and high-functioning forms distinct.
Interpretation & limitations
- Apply the selected form’s anchored ratings and interpretation rules.
- Interpret the findings alongside the clinical interview, functioning, history and relevant physical assessment.
- The Standard and High-Functioning versions have different intended populations; do not interchange their interpretation.
- Use the original instrument and manual for item wording, rating anchors, missing-data rules and any normative conversions. This reference does not establish a diagnosis or select treatment.