Understanding Crime in Adults with Autism: A 10-Year Study in Turkey

Between 2012 and 2022, a study in Turkey examined the criminal behavior of adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and compared them with adults without ASD. The study focused on understanding the differences in offending patterns and clinical characteristics. The records of 11, 583 adults assessed by the Turkish Council of Forensic Medicine were looked at, and 74 adults with ASD were identified. These individuals were compared with 100 adults without ASD, selected based on age and year of assessment. Adults with ASD tended to be younger and more likely to be unemployed and not living independently. They were also more prone to having co-occurring conditions like intellectual disabilities, ADHD, and OCD. In contrast, those without ASD were more likely to have personality disorders. The types of crimes committed also varied. Adults with ASD were more likely to commit impulsive, simple offenses such as non-penetrative sexual or violent crimes against strangers. They were also more likely to be influenced by impulsivity and manipulability. On the other hand, those without ASD tended to plan more serious, penetrative crimes against people they knew, often driven by revenge. Additionally, adults with ASD were more likely to commit crimes on social media. This study highlights the need to recognize and address the unique needs of adults with ASD in the criminal justice system to prevent further offending.