Offending behaviour in adults with Asperger syndrome

Abstract

Considerable speculation is evident both within the scientific literature and popular media regarding possible links between Asperger syndrome and offending. A survey methodology that utilised quantitative data collection was employed to investigate the prevalence of offending behaviour amongst adults with Asperger Syndrome in a large geographical area of South Wales, UK; qualitative interviews were then conducted with a sub-sample of those identified. A small number of participants meeting the study criteria were identified. For those who had offended, their experience of the criminal justice system was essentially negative. Possible implications of the results were discussed.