Assessment and management of risk in autism

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the issues in risk assessment and management of autism spectrum disorders in secure hospital settings with reference to best practice guidance.

Design/methodology/approach

The author undertook a review of the current literature on risk management in autism spectrum disorders and has drawn on clinical experience to highlight key issues.

Findings

Risk assessment and management needs to be tailored to individuals. Characteristics of offences differ compared to other mental disorders. Underlying factors for offending differ from other mental disorders and may be misinterpreted.

Practical implications

Risk assessment in autism spectrum disorders should take into account individual characteristics and be informed by specialist assessments. Management should be based on a formulation informed by assessments and by recognising individual characteristics.

Originality/value

The paper highlights important issues in risk assessment and management of patients with autism spectrum disorders particularly in secure hospital settings.

Citation

Gunasekaran, S. (2012), "Assessment and management of risk in autism", Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities, Vol. 6 No. 6, pp. 314-320. https://doi.org/10.1108/20441281211285964