Adjudicated Youths and Special Needs Myths

• In Event: Perspectives on Punishment for Juvenile Sex Offenders

Abstract

This study examines peer attachment among incarcerated juveniles with autism spectrum symptoms. It is hypothesized that juvenile sex offenders (JSOs) will exhibit more ASD traits than the general adolescent population (GAP). A sample of 225 males who either had a sexual offending or a non-sexual delinquency history were administered both the Autism Spectrum Quotient and the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment during their pretreatment assessment. Understanding the ways in which these adolescents communicate with their peers may help facilitate an individual’s understanding of prosocial relationships and the potential for recidivating post-release.

Author

• Bethany Danielle Mims, Florida State University