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Criminal Justice Professionals’ Autism Knowledge and Perceptions of Confidence when Interacting with Autistic Individuals

Fri, Nov 17, 9:30 to 10:50am, Salon A, 5th Floor

Abstract

Objective: Research has demonstrated that criminal justice (CJ) professionals have various concerns about how to appropriately communicate and support autistic individuals. The current study aims to understand the role of autism training on autism knowledge and how it influences confidence levels when interacting with autistic individuals during their professional duties.
Data/Methods: In the current study, CJ professionals (N = 596) responded to an online survey that quantitatively measured autism knowledge, information about autism-specific training, and confidence levels in working with autistic individuals. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to analyze survey results.
Results: 62% reported having worked with autistic individuals; on average, most demonstrated adequate autism knowledge. 55% of respondents reported receiving autism training, and more than 80% reported using the training. The results also showed that the length of the training was positively associated with having autism knowledge, having greater confidence in communication, and having more positive outcomes.
Conclusions/Implications: The findings of this study provide greater insight into CJ professionals’ knowledge, training, and confidence in communicating and interacting with autistic individuals and what factors may influence these outcomes. In addition, the findings can address the current concerns to improve communication and interactions between CJ professionals and the autistic community.

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