Social communication concerns and autism recognition — formative SAQs

SAQ 1 (10 marks)

A father of an 18-month-old says: “He does not point or look when I call his name.” ^[1]

1. List four bedside observations that help discriminate autism concern from isolated speech delay. (4) ^{[1] [4]}
2. Explain the role and limits of M-CHAT-R/F in this age band. (3) ^[2]
3. Outline your immediate management steps after a positive screen or strong clinical concern. (3) ^{[1] [3]}

Model answer

Observe joint attention, pointing/showing, response to name, social use of any words, imitation and play quality — not word count alone. ^{[1] [4]} M-CHAT-R/F risk-stratifies with follow-up interview; it does not diagnose ASD. ^[2] Check hearing, refer early to developmental pathways, start interim supports, counsel that screen ≠ diagnosis, and safety-net the wait. ^{[1] [3]}