University of Cambridge test shows engineers are most autistic profession

Results to be used in further academic research

Engineers are most likely to suffer from the symptoms of autism-related disorders than any other profession, according to the results of an online test designed by the University of Cambridge.

The test, which has been taken by 150,000 people at the time of writing, also reveals that teachers are the least likely to experience the symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). Meanwhile, people in the south of the country are more likely to experience symptoms than those in the north.

Psychologist Simon Baron-Cohen and his colleagues at the University of Cambridge's Autism Research Centre created the Autism-Spectrum Quotient – a test containing 50 simple multiple choice questions about outlook on life – as a measure of the extent of autistic traits in adults. The test was designed for the Channel 4 programme Embarrassing Bodies, but the results will contribute towards academic research at the university.

Questions in the tests include: "I prefer to do things with others than on my own", "I am fascinated by numbers", and "I usually notice car number plates or similar strings of information".

However, the creators of the test have warned that it is not diagnostic, so even if you get a high score does not categorically mean you have autism or Asperger's.

Baron-Cohen has worked with autistic people for the past 25 years and has carried out several pieces of research looking at autism and those working in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (Stem)-related careers.

ASDs can cause a wide range of symptoms covering social interaction and communication. This can include difficulty with social interaction, problems with language and communications skills and unusual patterns of thought and physical behaviour.

It is estimated that 1% of the UK population is affected by autism.

Take the test here.