Sense and Sensibility: Forensic Issues with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Whilst it is widely accepted that the majority of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) lead law-abiding and productive lives, individual experiences can vary enormously. In some circumstances, poor outcomes might result in individuals with a
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David Murphy
11.1 Introduction Whilst it is widely accepted that the majority of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) lead law-abiding and productive lives, individual experiences can vary enormously. In some circumstances, poor outcomes might result in individuals with an ASD finding themselves in contact with the psychiatric and nonpsychiatric services of the criminal justice system (CJS). For individuals with an ASD, although contact with the CJS is more likely to be as a victim or witness of crime, some may have contact as a result of being a perpetrator of some form of offending behaviour. However, it is also possible that the same individual may fall into all of these categories. Whatever the circumstances, once within the CJS, such individuals are typically recognised to present with difficulties and needs that challenge mainstream services. An examination of the contemporary literature suggests that interest in individuals with an ASD who offend and who become involved with forensic services has increased significantly over recent years. Indeed, there is now a substantial and growing body of research papers, case reports and books devoted to the topic. Attempting to review the entirety of these publications within a single book chapter would be overwhelming, as well as could lead to a rather confused understanding of this diverse and complex group of individuals. Many of the reviews that have been attempted could also be argued to be limited by being very select in their inclusion of studies and make similar observations. Although still biased in interpretation, the aim of this chapter will be to explore the topics that have created the most debate in
D. Murphy Broadmoor High Secure Psychiatric Hospital, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 7EG, UK Autism Diagnostic Research Centre (ADRC), Unity 12, 9 -19 Rose Road, Southampton SO14 6TE, UK e-mail: [email protected] © Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2017 B. Barahona Corrêa, R.-J. van der Gaag (eds.), Autism Spectrum Disorders in Adults, DOI 10.1007/978-3-319-42713-3_11
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the literature and are most clinically relevant. In addition, some important gaps in our current knowledge will be highlighted, along with suggestions for further research. It is also important to state that although the chapter reflects the English CJS, much of the research cited is international, and the topics discussed are applicable to a wide range of countries and cultures. In addition, the use of the term individuals with an ASD will be used to refer to a broad group of adults such as those with Asperger’s syndrome and high-functioning autism. Where there may also be issues linked to intellectual disability, this will be highlighted.
11.2 Media Portrayal of Offenders with ASD An important place to start any discussion of forensic issues with ASD is how individuals who offend are presented within the media. An examination of the available literature reveals that this has been a neglected topic of research. Certainly most of us do
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