Autism is an underrecognized issue in jail and prison populations, with its symptoms viewed as aggression, rebellion, and deliberate violations of facility codes of conduct, rather than stemming from a clinical disorder that makes complying with rules and regulations in a stressful environment very difficult. Clinicians can learn to identify the disorder and modify treatment plans and interventions accordingly, and custody staff can work with autism patients in a way that improves functioning.

Educational Objectives

• Review diagnostic criteria and behavioral markers of autism in corrections
• Describe clinical interventions for people diagnosed with autism and living in correctional settings
• Discuss three interventions for appropriate management of people who are diagnosed with autism

Level Intermediate