Why Psychometric Tests are Discriminatory Against Autistic People

Rachel Worsley  |  26/08/2023

Psychometric tests themselves are not inherently discriminatory against autistic people. However, the way these tests are designed, administered, and interpreted can sometimes pose challenges for individuals with autism, potentially leading to outcomes that may appear discriminatory. Here are some reasons why psychometric tests can be challenging for autistic individuals:

1. Social and Communication Differences: Many psychometric tests assess social and communication skills, which are areas where autistic individuals may have differences or challenges. These tests may not account for or accommodate these differences, which can lead to lower scores for autistic individuals, even if they possess the skills required for the job.
2. Sensory Sensitivities: Some autistic individuals have sensory sensitivities, such as sensitivity to bright lights, loud noises, or crowded environments. Psychometric tests conducted in environments that do not account for these sensitivities may result in heightened anxiety or discomfort, affecting test performance.
3. Cognitive Flexibility: Some psychometric tests assess cognitive flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing situations. Autistic individuals may have strengths in specific areas but may struggle with tasks that require rapid shifts in focus or multitasking.
4. Lack of Understanding: Test administrators and employers may not have a full understanding of autism and may misinterpret behaviors or responses during testing, leading to biased judgments.
5. Standardization and Norms: Psychometric tests are often standardized on a neurotypical population, meaning they are designed and validated based on the performance of individuals without neurological differences. This can result in tests that are not culturally or neurologically inclusive.
6. Anxiety: Many autistic individuals experience heightened anxiety in new or unfamiliar situations, including test-taking environments. This anxiety can negatively impact performance on psychometric tests.
7. Verbal vs. Non-Verbal Assessments: Some psychometric tests heavily rely on verbal communication and language skills. Autistic individuals who have strong non-verbal communication skills may not perform as well on tests that do not adequately measure their abilities.

To address these challenges and promote fairness, it's important for test designers, employers, and testing administrators to consider the following:

1. Accessibility and Accommodations: Offering reasonable accommodations, such as extended time, quiet testing environments, or alternative ways to demonstrate skills, can help level the playing field for autistic individuals.
2. Validity and Bias: Continuously review and validate psychometric tests to ensure they do not discriminate against any specific group, including individuals with autism.
3. Awareness and Training: Train test administrators and employers to be aware of autism and how it may affect test performance. Sensitivity and understanding can lead to more accurate assessments.
4. Alternative Assessment Methods: Consider alternative methods of assessment that focus on job-related skills and abilities rather than social or communication skills, when appropriate.
5. Individualized Assessment: Tailor assessments to the specific needs and strengths of each individual, recognizing that autism is a spectrum, and abilities vary widely among autistic individuals.

Ultimately, the goal should be to create a more inclusive and accommodating assessment process that allows all individuals, including those with autism, to demonstrate their skills and abilities fairly.

Stay updated on the latest resources from Neurodiversity Media. Sign up to the NeuroWork Newsletter today: