Crime and Autism Spectrum Disorder
Author | : Neil Brewer |
Publisher | : Jessica Kingsley Publishers |
Total Pages | : 224 |
Release | : 2015-06-21 |
ISBN-10 | : 9780857007735 |
ISBN-13 | : 0857007734 |
Rating | : 4/5 (734 Downloads) |
Download or read book Crime and Autism Spectrum Disorder written by Neil Brewer and published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. This book was released on 2015-06-21 with total page 224 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Having Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can - given certain situational conditions - make individuals more vulnerable to becoming caught up in criminal activity and vulnerable to unfavourable interactions once in the criminal justice system. Guided by empirical research, psychological theory and illustrative case studies involving adults with ASD who have been implicated in crimes, Robyn L. Young and Neil Brewer explain why. They examine the pivotal cognitive, social and behavioural characteristics unique to ASD (such as weak Theory of Mind, restricted interests and acute sensory sensitivities) that - individually or in interaction - may contribute to individuals becoming involved in illegal activities. They then discuss how these same characteristics can result in ongoing ineffective interaction with the criminal justice system. Arguing that the forensic assessment of individuals with ASD requires substantial redevelopment to clarify the key deficits contributing to criminal behaviour, the authors highlight the need for, and desirable nature of, intervention programs to minimize the criminal vulnerability of adults with ASD and to prepare them for interactions with the criminal justice system. A final section raises some major unanswered questions and issues for future research. This book will be of immeasurable interest to criminal justice professionals including probation officers, social workers, clinical and forensic psychologists, police officers, lawyers and judges, as well as students of these professions.