For Teens with Autism, Behavioral Issues Boost Risk of Police Run-ins
Published on
Young people with autism who have serious psychiatric problems stand a ninefold greater chance of having an encounter with the police than do others on the spectrum, according to a new study from the Center for Autism Research, co-led by CAR’s Associate Director, David Mandell, ScD.
The study is among the first to look at the links between behavioral problems, hospital visits for psychiatric problems, and police emergencies among people with autism. The results suggest that intervening in early adolescence could lower the chances of an individual on the spectrum interacting with the criminal justice system.