Pronounced traits

What a RAADS-R Score of 140 Means

TL;DR

A RAADS-R score of 140 marks the entry to the 'pronounced traits' band (140–240). Strong, broad endorsement across the test's autism-direction items. Clear screen-positive on this instrument.

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Score in Context

Score band
140 (pronounced traits)
Where it sits
Entry to the 'pronounced traits' band (140–240).
Threshold
65 (Ritvo et al. 2011); refined by Hegarty et al. (2025).
Tiers
0-64 below · 65-105 gray · 106-139 consistent · 140-240 pronounced

What a RAADS-R of 140 Means

RAADS-R 140 begins the 'pronounced traits' band. Adults who score in this range typically show high endorsement across all four sub-scales — Social Relatedness, Sensory-Motor, Circumscribed Interests, and Language. The breadth distinguishes a 140 from a 100; it's not just one sub-scale carrying the score.

False positives in this band are uncommon. Specificity rises with score, and at 140 you're clearly above the threshold the instrument was designed to flag. The Hegarty et al. (2025) refinements still treat 140+ as a clear screen-positive.

Adults at RAADS-R 140 typically score 7–9 on the AQ-10. If you've taken both and both are elevated, the picture is convergent. Formal autism assessment is the standard next step. Bring the sub-scale breakdown — clinicians often find it useful to see which traits are leading.

Recommended Next Steps

  • Pursue formal clinical assessment.
  • Bring the four-sub-scale breakdown to the appointment.
  • Connect with adult-autism communities for peer experience.

RAADS-R vs AQ-10

The RAADS-R (80 items, four sub-scales) and AQ-10 (10 items) are designed to converge. Cross-validating between them strengthens the screen-positive picture or highlights interesting disagreements.

Take the AQ-10 for a fast cross-check.

← Score 120 All RAADS-R scores Score 160 →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a RAADS-R of 140 high?

Yes — it marks the start of the 'pronounced traits' band, with strong broad endorsement across sub-scales.

What does 'pronounced traits' mean?

Ritvo et al. (2011) and subsequent work treat 140+ as the upper band where false positives are uncommon and the autism pattern is clearly present.

AQ-10 score at RAADS-R 140?

Typically 7–9. The two screens converge well at this level.

Should I expect an autism diagnosis?

Most adults who score 140+ on the RAADS-R and pursue formal assessment do receive an autism diagnosis. It's not certain, but it's the most likely outcome.

Is the RAADS-R alone enough for diagnosis?

No — only a clinician can diagnose autism through formal assessment. The RAADS-R is a screen.

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Free · 80 questions · Four sub-scales · 2025 Hegarty refined scoring

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