Characterization of autism spectrum disorder inside prison

Abstract

Introduction: Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by intolerance of change, empathy deficits, misunders-tandings, and emotional dysregulation. Core symptoms can determine criminal behaviour and subsequent interactions with the penal system. A significant presence of such symptoms is detected in forensic settings. The objective of this study is to analyze the characteristics of autism within the prison context, summarizing and updating the knowledge in this field. Material and method: Systematic review through databases on studies that analyze the socio-demographic, clinical, and judicial characteristics of prisoners diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Results: Autistic traits constitute an independent risk factor for incarceration. Those inmates with autism spectrum disorder frequently present a psychiatric comorbidity, especially substance use disorder, psychotic disorders, and other neuro-develop-mental disorders. They are associated with a greater probability of self-harming thoughts and disruptive behaviours, which are not predicted by the usual evaluation tools. Discussion: Prisoners with autism spectrum disorder have a differential socio-demographic, clinical, and criminal profile. A specific approach that is different from the one provided for neurotypical prisoners should be offered to these inmates. In-frastructures should be adapted to reduce fragility, make the environment more flexible and specific methods for evaluation and treatment should be developed.