OAQ

Online Alexithymia Questionnaire

Anxiety & relatedSelf-reportAges 16+37 statements~7 min

Validated by Thompson (OAQ-G2) (2007)

Clinically reviewed by Dr. Jaye Turrietta, PsyD, BCBA-D, AEP

A 37-item self-report measure of alexithymic traits.

For each statement, select the response that best describes you. Answer honestly — there are no right or wrong answers.

37 statements · ~7 min · Auto-saved

About the OAQ

The Online Alexithymia Questionnaire (second generation, OAQ-G2) was developed by Jason Thompson in 2007. It measures difficulty identifying and describing emotions, distinguishing between accompanying bodily sensations, and related interpersonal patterns. It covers seven factors including vicarious interpretation of feelings, restricted imaginative processes, and sexual difficulties.

37 items on a 5-point scale. Designed for adults with ASD Level 1 and IQ ≥ 80. Takes 7–15 minutes. A maximum of 17 items can be answered “Undecided” for meaningful results.

Scoring

Items score 1–5 (Strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree); questions 3, 7, 8, 23, and 32 are reverse-scored. The range is 37–185. Scores below 95 indicate no alexithymia; 95–112 indicate possible alexithymia; 113 or above indicate alexithymia is present.

Alexithymia & autism

Research estimates 40–65% of autistic individuals have alexithymia, with some studies suggesting rates as high as 70%. The OAQ was designed to address limitations in the TAS-20 and BVAQ, providing broader coverage of alexithymic traits.

Important: The OAQ is not clinically validated but is based on clinically validated instruments. It is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. Consult a qualified professional for a formal assessment.

Thompson, J. (2007). Online Alexithymia Questionnaire, second generation (OAQ-G2).

OAQ FAQs

The most common questions about the OAQ (Online Alexithymia Questionnaire).

What is the OAQ?

The OAQ (Online Alexithymia Questionnaire) is a 37-item statement self-report screener for alexithymic traits. A 37-item self-report measure of alexithymic traits with three-band scoring. It was developed by Thompson (OAQ-G2) (2007).

Who can take the OAQ?

The OAQ is designed for adults age 16 and up to complete themselves.

How long does the OAQ take?

Most people complete the OAQ in about 7 minutes. You can pause at any time — your answers are saved in your browser, so you can resume on the same device.

Is the OAQ diagnostic?

No. The OAQ is a screening tool, not a diagnostic instrument. It is a research-grade measure that can suggest whether further evaluation is warranted, but only a licensed clinical psychologist or psychiatrist can make a formal diagnosis. NeuroClarity offers PSYPACT-licensed telehealth autism and ADHD evaluations via telehealth — a doctoral-level psychologist conducts a comprehensive evaluation, with reports typically delivered within days.

Is the OAQ free to take here?

Yes. The OAQ is free to take on this page. We don't require a sign-up, and we don't collect or share your responses — your answers are saved locally in your browser. You can also export your results as a PDF for your own records or to share with a clinician.

What does my OAQ score mean?

After you complete the OAQ, you'll see your total score broken into the validated severity / likelihood bands published for this instrument, along with a plain-language interpretation. Specific cutoffs vary by tool — for the OAQ, the scoring ranges and band descriptions are shown directly on the results page.

What if my OAQ score is elevated?

An elevated score on the OAQ is one signal — not a diagnosis. The recommended next step is a comprehensive clinical evaluation. NeuroClarity offers PSYPACT-licensed telehealth autism and ADHD evaluations starting at $950 flat fee with no waitlist; reports are typically delivered within days and include the diagnostic documentation needed for IEPs, ABA prior authorization, and other downstream services.

If your OAQ score suggests further evaluation may be warranted, book a comprehensive evaluation with one of our PSYPACT-licensed clinical psychologists. Reports typically delivered within one week.

How the OAQ compares to related screeners

Most screeners measure similar constructs but vary in length, target audience, and emphasis. Here's how the OAQ relates to the most commonly-paired alternatives.

OAQ vs SCARED - Child

The OAQ and the SCARED - Child both measure alexithymic traits at a similar length (37 vs 41 statements). They originated from different research groups (2007 and 1997 respectively) and emphasize slightly different facets of the construct. Taking both and comparing your scores can be more informative than either one alone.

Take the SCARED - Child →

OAQ vs BFI

The OAQ and the BFI both measure alexithymic traits at a similar length (37 vs 44 statements). They originated from different research groups (2007 and 1999 respectively) and emphasize slightly different facets of the construct. Taking both and comparing your scores can be more informative than either one alone.

Take the BFI →

OAQ vs LSAS

The OAQ and the LSAS both measure alexithymic traits at a similar length (37 vs 48 statements). They originated from different research groups (2007 and 1987 respectively) and emphasize slightly different facets of the construct. Taking both and comparing your scores can be more informative than either one alone.

Take the LSAS →

Add this free screener to your site

Educators, clinicians, and organizations are welcome to embed the OAQ for free. Copy the snippet below. It keeps a small link back to NeuroClarity.

OAQ