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Chapter 9 - The Role of Subthreshold Neurodevelopmental Disorder in Offending Behaviour

from Section 1 - An Overview: Definitions, Epidemiology and Policy Issues

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 May 2023

By
Eddie Chaplin  and
Jane M. McCarthy
Edited by
Jane M. McCarthy ,
Regi T. Alexander  and
Eddie Chaplin
Jane M. McCarthy
Affiliation:
Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and University of Auckland
Regi T. Alexander
Affiliation:
Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust and University of Hertfordshire
Eddie Chaplin
Affiliation:
Institute of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University
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Summary

The study of subthreshold neurodevelopmental disorders (STNDs) and the implications for future health, social and criminal justice services is in its infancy. Current research points towards increased vulnerability to a number of risk factors that are likely to impact both the individual and future service demand. Offenders who meet diagnostic criteria for a specific neurodevelopmental disorder are often shown to have more similarities than differences to offenders with STNDs. As well as communication and adaptive problems, similarities also include higher rates of mental disorder and increased vulnerability to suicide and self-harm. Within STNDs there exists a wide variation in presentation which may be atypical. The future study of STNDs requires a coordinated strategy and agreement as to a common definition using a dimensional approach.

Keywords

neurodevelopmental disordersoffendingsubthresholdautistic traitsborderline intellectual functioningattention and hyperactive symptoms
Type
Chapter
Information
Forensic Aspects of Neurodevelopmental Disorders
A Clinician's Guide
 , pp. 101 - 111
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2023

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