RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Improving Care for Autistic Youth in Correctional Settings
JF Journal of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law Online
JO J Am Acad Psychiatry Law
FD American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law
SP JAAPL.250079-25
DO 10.29158/JAAPL.250079-25
A1 Fodstad, Jill C.
A1 Russell, Rachel
A1 Bryant, Lauren O.
A1 Tadevich, Lauren J.
A1 Dwenger, Deanna
A1 Gray, Michael A.
YR 2025
UL http://jaapl.org/content/early/2025/11/21/JAAPL.250079-25.abstract
AB Youth on the autism spectrum who engage in delinquent or violent crimes can be adjudicated to juvenile correctional settings. These settings, which are meant to successfully reintegrate youth back into the community through education, counseling, and skills programs, are often ill-equipped to navigate the unique needs of youth on the autism spectrum. As a result, autistic youth in juvenile correctional settings often do poorly, minimizing the likelihood that successful reintegration occurs. The purpose of this review is to summarize the literature on the prevalence of autistic youth in correctional settings and their needs, as well as the standard of care often afforded to them in these settings. Finally, we will present suggested strategies informed by the literature whereby adjudicated autistic youth are provided services and support that are feasible in a correctional setting and align with autism-informed, evidence-based practices.