Autistic spectrum disorder and offending behaviour – a brief review of the literature
ISSN: 2056-3868
Article publication date: 14 September 2018
Issue publication date: 16 October 2018
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper to synthesise much of the existing research on autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) and offending behaviour.
Design/methodology/approach
It considers three key areas, namely, first, a discussion about the nature of ASD and how it might be related to offending behaviour; second, a brief commentary about the prevalence of this population; and, finally, an exploration of the effective management and possible treatment outcomes.
Findings
Methodological limitations have resulted in variable findings which has hindered our understanding of this population. Some of the research is based on small, highly specialist samples making prevalence difficult to measure. The link between ASD and offending is still not well understood, and despite advances in staff training, awareness amongst practitioners remains an underdeveloped area, thus yielding variable treatment outcomes.
Originality/value
This review continues to demonstrate the urgent need for robust research in order to better understand the link between ASD and offending behaviour, to provide tailored, needs-led interventions, and reduce the risk of offending amongst this group as a whole.
Keywords
Citation
Ali, S. (2018), "Autistic spectrum disorder and offending behaviour – a brief review of the literature", Advances in Autism, Vol. 4 No. 3, pp. 109-121. https://doi.org/10.1108/AIA-05-2018-0015
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited