Interviewing individuals with an autism spectrum disorder in forensic settings

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) encompass the neurodevelopmental conditions including autism, atypical autism, high functioning autism, and Asperger’s syndrome. In addition to difficulties with social communication, reciprocal social interaction and within different dimensions of imagination, individuals with an ASD typically present with sensory hypersensitivities, a specific cognitive style and characteristics, emotional regulation issues, as well as other co-morbid neurodevelopmental or psychiatric conditions. All these features can raise significant issues when formally interviewing an individual with an ASD, especially within forensic contexts where individuals may be interviewed as a witness, victim or perpetrator of an offense for a range of reasons. To date, there has been limited discussion in the literature regarding how the difficulties associated with having an ASD and co-morbidities can impact on forensic interviews. Using the available literature and clinical experience this article summarizes some key issues and possible solutions related to conducting forensic interviews with adults who have ASD.