A-DES Test: Free Adolescent Dissociative Experiences Scale Online
Articles are prepared using evidence-based sources and clinical editorial standards.
Do you feel unreal, lose time, or disconnect from yourself — especially after stress or trauma? For teenagers, these can be signs of dissociation. The A-DES test (Adolescent Dissociative Experiences Scale) is a validated 30-item screening tool used in adolescent mental health and trauma care. On LuriaLab you can take the free A-DES online and get instant scoring with clear interpretation.
What Is the A-DES?
The Adolescent Dissociative Experiences Scale (A-DES) was developed by Armstrong and colleagues to measure dissociative symptoms in teenagers. Unlike adult scales such as the DES-II, A-DES uses language and items tailored to adolescent experiences.
The scale includes 30 items about experiences such as:
- Feeling detached from your body or surroundings (depersonalization/derealization)
- Memory gaps or “lost time”
- Spacing out or feeling in a fog
- Acting differently as if another part of you took over
A-DES is a screening tool, not a diagnosis of a dissociative disorder. Only a qualified mental health professional can determine what symptoms mean in context.
A-DES Scoring Explained
Each item is rated on a frequency scale from never to always (0–5). Scores can be reported as a mean across items or a total sum. On LuriaLab your result is calculated automatically with interpretation guidance.
Higher scores suggest more frequent dissociative experiences. If your score is elevated and symptoms affect school, friendships, or daily life, consider speaking with a trauma-informed counselor or psychiatrist.
A-DES vs DES-II vs DSS-B vs SDQ-20
- A-DES — adolescent dissociation screening (30 items)
- DES-II — classic adult dissociation scale used widely in research
- DSS-B — brief 8-item past-week dissociation screen (adults)
- SDQ-20 — somatoform dissociation (bodily numbness, weakness, pain)
Teens with trauma history may benefit from A-DES first; adults typically use DES-II, DSS, or DSS-B on LuriaLab.
Who Should Take the A-DES Test?
Adolescents (roughly ages 12–18) who notice depersonalization, derealization, memory gaps, or emotional numbness — especially after bullying, abuse, accidents, or other stressful events. Parents or counselors may suggest A-DES as a structured first step before a full evaluation.
What to Do After Your A-DES Results
- Read your score without panic — screening points toward next steps, not a label.
- Talk to a trusted adult (parent, school counselor, therapist) if symptoms are distressing or frequent.
- Seek trauma-informed care if dissociation affects safety, school, or relationships.
- Download your report to share in a consultation if you choose.
Take the Free A-DES Test on LuriaLab
Ready for a confidential adolescent dissociation screen? Take the A-DES test on LuriaLab — free, anonymous, and scored automatically.
Important: This screening is educational and does not replace professional evaluation. If you are in crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis line such as 988 in the United States.