This study investigated the factor structure of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). Principal components analysis (PCA) and principal axis factor analysis (PAF) evaluated archival data from children presenting to a university clinic with suspected autism spectrum disorders (ASDs;
N = 164). PCA did not replicate components identified by DiLalla and Rogers (
1994, Domains of the Childhood Autism Rating Scale: Relevance for diagnosis and treatment.
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 24(2), 115–128) and Stella, Mundy, and Tuchman (
1999, Social and nonsocial factors in the Childhood Autism Rating Scale.
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 29(4), 307–317). PAF identified correlated Social-Communication, Social Interaction, Stereotypies and Sensory Abnormalities, and Emotional Regulation factors. Results differed across studies; however, each identified ASD related constructs conceptually consistent with DSM-IV. Although its development predates the DSM-IV, and many newer measures are available, the CARS’ psychometric properties, conceptual relevance, and flexible administration procedures support its continued use as a screening device in the diagnostic decision-making process.
