No, a high score only indicates the presence of significant autistic traits. Autism is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive evaluation by a specialist for an official diagnosis.
The AQ test focuses on five areas: social skills, attention switching, attention to detail, communication, and imagination. The RAADS-R is often considered a more in-depth tool for identifying "hidden" autism in adults, but the AQ remains the "gold standard" for initial screening.
Autistic traits are generally stable throughout life. However, results may fluctuate slightly depending on your current emotional state, stress levels, or growing self-awareness.