What is the Empathy Quotient (EQ)?
The Empathy Quotient (EQ) Test is a valuable tool designed to evaluate your ability to understand and respond to the emotions of others. Empathy plays a crucial role in social interaction, and differences in emotional understanding are often associated with autism spectrum conditions.
With 60 straightforward questions, the EQ test provides a detailed look at how well you identify, interpret, and empathise with others’ feelings. It’s particularly beneficial for those curious about their emotional responses and how these might align with autism-related traits.
How are EQ scores interpreted?
- A score of 30 or below suggests a lower level of empathy and difficulties with connecting with others emotions or expressing empathy.
- A study found that about 81% of people diagnosed with Autism score 30 or lower
- A majority of non-autistic males score 42 on average
- A majority non-autistic females score 47 on average
- A score of 30 or above suggests a greater level of empathy and higher sensitivities to others’ emotions and may demonstrate empathy more consistently
- EQ scores are not a definitive indicator of an individual’s empathic capabilities as it is a complex trait influenced by many different variables. There are also many different types of empathy exhibited by individuals. The EQ may be a better measure of social and communicative differences rather than simply empathy alone.
Why Should You Take the EQ Test?
If you’ve ever wondered how well you empathise with others or noticed challenges in recognising emotions, the EQ test is an excellent starting point. This test helps you:
- Understand how you connect emotionally with others.
- Gain insights into areas where emotional recognition might be challenging.
- Explore traits that are commonly associated with autism.
Additionally, see how the test works below.
How Does the EQ Test Work?
The EQ test is simple to complete and gives you meaningful results:
- Answer Thoughtful Questions: Reflect on your emotional responses in various situations, from recognising subtle social cues to reacting to others’ feelings.
- Receive Your Score: Your results will indicate whether your empathy levels align with typical or autism-related traits.
- Decide Your Next Steps: If the test highlights significant challenges, you can explore further resources or seek professional guidance.
Looking for other tests? See below for more Autism tests.
Other Tests You Might Find Helpful
Autism Quotient (AQ) Test
Explore a broader range of autism-related traits, including social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours.
👉 Take the AQ Test
CAT-Q (Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire)
Discover how you adapt or mask autistic traits in social settings with this targeted tool.
👉 Take the CAT-Q Test
RAADS-R Test
Dive deeper into lifelong autism traits with this comprehensive screening tool designed for adults.
👉 Take the RAADS-R Test
FAQ Section: Empathy Quotient (EQ) Test
1. What does the EQ test measure?
The EQ test evaluates your ability to recognise and respond to emotions, providing insights into empathy traits that may be linked to autism spectrum conditions.
2. How long does the EQ test take?
Most people complete the test in about 10–15 minutes.
3. Is the EQ test free?
Yes, the EQ test is completely free and accessible on NeuroDirect.
4. Can the EQ test diagnose autism?
No, the EQ test is a screening tool designed to provide insights into empathy traits. It is not a diagnostic test.
5. What should I do after taking the test?
If your results suggest traits associated with autism, consider using NeuroDirect’s Find a Specialist tool to connect with professionals for further evaluation or support.
References
The Empathy Quotient: An Investigation of Adults with Asperger Syndrome or High Functioning Autism, and Normal Sex Differences (Baron-Cohen & Wheelwright, 2004)