What is the primary role of the follow-up interview in autism screening?

• A. They provide a final ASD diagnosis.
• B. They clarify ambiguous responses and determine whether a child is truly at risk prior to referral.
• C. They replace the initial screen.
• D. They are optional.

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how a follow-up interview functions after an autism screen. Its purpose is to gather more detailed information to clarify any unclear or ambiguous responses from the initial screen, so you can determine whether a child is truly at risk and needs a full evaluation before making referrals. This step helps improve accuracy and reduce unnecessary referrals by probing developmental history, social-communication patterns, play, and behaviors in different contexts. It does not provide a final diagnosis, nor does it replace the initial screen, and in many programs it is a standard, not optional, part of the screening process.