Offending in individuals with autistic spectrum disorder: a study of risk and need

Turner, Theresa (2015). Offending in individuals with autistic spectrum disorder: a study of risk and need. University of Birmingham. Foren.Psy.D.

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Abstract

Offending in people with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) though rare requires specialist knowledge of the risk factors involved, to adapt interventions effectively. A review of the somewhat sparse literature suggests that empathy impairments and social skills deficits are frequently cited risk factors, indicating that attachment security may be a mediating factor. Due to ‘common’ impairments in empathising abilities, offenders with ASD and Psychopathic Disorder are sometimes thought of similarly, but evidence suggests they show differing cognitive and affective empathy deficits (Blair, 2010). The Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI: Davis, 1983) was used to measure cognitive and affective empathy in this study. A secure website was designed and created to access participants and collect data over the Internet. Regression analyses were carried out to investigate how the empathy levels and attachment styles varied with psychopathic and autistic traits in a community sample of 46 male and 34 female participants, of whom 13 had a diagnosis of an ASD and 17 had committed offences. These results are discussed with regard to implications for risk and risk management in offenders with ASD.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Foren.Psy.D.

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