E-Thesis 429 views
An exploratory study of the challenges that arise when adults with autism spectrum disorder encounter the police and criminal justice system / JULIE KING
Swansea University Author: JULIE KING
DOI (Published version): 10.23889/SUthesis.60409
Abstract
There is limited research exploring police practice when dealing with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), therefore the aim of this thesis has been to identify, explore and critically analyse the views of key stakeholders concerning the significant gaps that exist in our knowledge, when...
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Swansea
2022
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| Institution: | Swansea University |
| Degree level: | Doctoral |
| Degree name: | Ph.D |
| Supervisor: | Edwards, Suzanne ; Charles, Anthony |
| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa60409 |
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| Abstract: |
There is limited research exploring police practice when dealing with individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), therefore the aim of this thesis has been to identify, explore and critically analyse the views of key stakeholders concerning the significant gaps that exist in our knowledge, when adults with ASD encounter the police and criminal justice system. This study incorporates empirical data, generated through on-line surveys and semi-structured interviews reviewing the current situation relating to autism awareness. This thesis examines the factors that contribute to the difficulties that arise when responding to individuals with ASD when detained in police custody and provides a unique insight into the lived experiences of individuals within the autistic community involved in the custody process. The findings demonstrate that many police officers and appropriate adults do not have the requisite skills to understand or relate to individuals with ASD. In addition, current police screening procedures, standardised in most police forces do not routinely include autism amongst the list of characteristics that indicate additional safeguards should be applied. This leaves a significant proportion of individuals with ASD unrecognised as vulnerable, leaving the safeguards contained in the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (1984) unimplemented. In conclusion, the findings support previous research regarding the need to address autism training for police and criminal justice professionals, but more work is needed to tackle the issues that stem from inadequate and ineffective police screening procedures. Further research is recommended to develop these findings; however, tentative results demonstrate that standardisation of police practice and an alternative to the current police custody process will greatly improve conditions for individuals with ASD, those that care for them and the criminal justice professionals who interact with them. |
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| College: |
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences |