Test Result
Broad Autism Phenotype
“You likely sit on the 'bridge' between neurotypical and autistic processing, sharing many sensitivities and deeper thinking styles without the full intensity of the spectrum.”
Your Result: Broad Autism Phenotype (BAP)
Your score falls into the Broad Autism Phenotype range. In the scientific literature, this is often described as having "moderate traits." You might not meet the clinical criteria for an autism diagnosis, but you likely experience the world with more intensity and specificity than the average person.
You may feel like a "cousin" to the spectrum. You might have a few specific areas where you relate deeply to autistic experiences—perhaps you are highly sensitive to noise, or you have a deep, focused passion for specific topics—but you can also navigate social nuances relatively well when you have the energy.
"Neurodiversity is not a binary switch; it is a landscape. You stand on the rolling hills, seeing both the structured valleys of the spectrum and the open plains of the neurotypical world."
Typical behaviors
- The "Social Battery": You can socialize effectively, but it costs you more energy than it does for others. You need "decompression time" after big events.
- Passionate Focus: You don't just "like" your hobbies; you study them. You prefer deep dives over surface-level chitchat.
- Routine Comfort: You don't need a strict routine to survive, but you definitely prefer it. Spontaneity is fun only in small doses.
Strengths in this pattern
- Deep Focus: Your ability to zero in on details allows you to master skills and knowledge areas thoroughly.
- Honest Communication: You likely value authenticity and directness, making you a trustworthy friend or colleague.
Common pitfalls
The "Not Enough" Trap:
- Imposter Syndrome: You might feel "too autistic" for neurotypical spaces but "too neurotypical" for autistic spaces.
- Sensory Burnout: Because you can push through sensory discomfort, you often do—until you suddenly crash.
"Reflection point: Are you forcing yourself to endure sensory discomfort just because you 'can'? What if you gave yourself permission to leave early?"
What you can do next
Small actions you can start today
- Audit your sensory environment: Buy the noise-canceling headphones or cut the tags off your shirt. You don't need a diagnosis to deserve comfort.
- Script your boundaries: Prepare a polite phrase for when you need to leave a social event early.
Longer-term directions
- Explore "BAP" literature: Reading about the Broad Autism Phenotype can validate your experience of feeling "in-between."
Disclaimer and when to seek help
This test describes patterns and is not a clinical diagnosis. Scores in this range are common among relatives of autistic people or highly sensitive individuals. If these traits cause you significant distress or relationship issues, a professional evaluation can provide clarity.