Using an "Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) screening" examines the extent to which a person has an ASD. An ASD is characterized by problems in social interaction and communication with people. It is a disorder that is present from early childhood and persists for life. 'Spectrum' means that the autistic disorder can manifest itself in various ways, ranging from very mild to very severe.
Prior to examination
Enclosed with this client information you will find a questionnaire (the so-called ATG questionnaire) that charts the course of early childhood development. The request is to have this ATG questionnaire filled out - if possible - by (one of) your parents/educators or another close relative of yours who experienced you in your early years. You are requested to bring the completed ATG questionnaire with you to the ASD examination. If no parents/educators or other relatives are available, we would like to ask you to bring - if possible - other information about your early development, such as (primary) school reports, to the ASD examination.
What does the research involve?
The study itself consists of two parts. The first part consists of an interview that begins with an explanation of the examination, what happens to your data and the rights you have in doing so. Next, your complaints will be identified. In particular, you will be asked about complaints or problems typical of someone with an ASD. In the first part, if possible, an interview will also be held with someone you already know well and for a long time, such as a parent, partner or neighbor. For this reason, you are asked - if possible - to bring a parent, partner or neighbor with you to the ASD examination. Of course, you may be present during this interview. If it is not possible to bring a parent, partner or loved one to the test, we will discuss with you whether the psychologist can contact you by telephone afterwards. Of course, this will only be done with your permission. During the second part of the examination, a number of tests and questionnaires will be administered. These measure cognitive functions such as flexibility, planning and initiative, as well as the ability to move and empathize with (the feelings of) another person. The total duration of the examination is approximately 4 to 5 hours. Naturally, there will be breaks in between. Sometimes it may be important to request additional information, for example from your family doctor. This is only possible with your prior written consent.
What happens to the data from the survey?
The data from the examination are presented in a written report. In doing so, the psychologist reports mainly on what is necessary to answer the question. At the end of the rap port, the data are summarized in a conclusion or reflection. This is followed by answers to the questions. The report is then sent to the applicant. In the case of a combination of investigations by different specialists, your data will be seen by several specialists where necessary. In the context of quality control it is also possible that a supervising specialist may view your data.
Right of inspection and correction
The final report is subject to the so-called "right of inspection and correction. This means that, if you wish, you are given a copy of the draft report and can indicate whether there is an incorrect representation of facts. Observations, test results and conclusions obviously fall outside the right of correction. The draft report will be sent to you by the psychologist in charge. If the examination is part of a Psychiatric examination , the draft report will be sent to you by the psychiatrist together with the report of the Psychiatric examination . Should this lead to comments on the psychological examination, the psychiatrist will submit this to the responsible psychologist for evaluation.
Professional secrecy
The psychologist is bound by his/her professional secrecy. However, if the examination takes place in the context of a current insurance policy, a legal regulation or Psychiatric examination then this professional secrecy is not unlimited. Since at Psyon most investigations take place within this context, this means that as a rule you cannot block the sending of the report to the applicant. Should other laws and regulations apply in your specific situation, these will of course be discussed with you prior to the investigation. The report is issued to third parties, in your case the applicant of the report. If the applicant is your employer, the report will be sent to the company doctor involved, not to your employer.
