Forensic Mental Health Assessments for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder
摘要
This chapter provides an overview of the interaction between individuals with autism spectrum disorder and the legal system, highlighting the need for professionals to utilize a neurodevelopmental framework when completing a forensic mental health assessment for this population. Common types of forensic mental health assessments requested by courts and attorneys are described. Specifically, assessments focusing on psycholegal issues related to competency to stand trial, criminal responsibility/the insanity defense, risk assessment, and guardianship are addressed. Given the lack of specific training and best practices available for assessing individuals with autism spectrum disorder in forensic contexts, ethical considerations and strategies for completing a forensic mental health assessment are provided.