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Chapter 13 - Intellectual Disability: Assessment and Therapeutic Approaches within Forensic Settings

from Section 2 - Assessment and Therapeutic Approach

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 May 2023

By
Ken Courtenay  and
Mhairi Duff
Edited by
Jane M. McCarthy ,
Regi T. Alexander  and
Eddie Chaplin
Jane M. McCarthy
Affiliation:
Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and University of Auckland
Regi T. Alexander
Affiliation:
Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust and University of Hertfordshire
Eddie Chaplin
Affiliation:
Institute of Health and Social Care, London South Bank University
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Summary

The prevalence of intellectual disability (ID) in offender services is higher than in the general population. Identifying offenders with ID in the criminal justice system can be a challenge. It is essential to recognise offenders who may have ID and assess them. Screening offenders for ID is potentially less time consuming and effective in identifying those who would benefit from full assessment. Screening tools such as the LDSQ and HASI have been developed in community and in forensic settings, which have good sensitivity and specificity. Screening for adaptive functioning skills is important when considering the presence of ID that may be difficult to elucidate in a forensic setting. The treatment of offenders with ID requires commitment from staff to support people through levels of security. Adapting treatment strategies is key to treating people. Treatment programmes for offences such as sex offences, fire setting and violence can be adapted successfully to work with people with cognitive impairments. Alternatives to custodial and hospital care are developing where people are diverted from prison to hospital or to appropriate community support.

Keywords

intellectual disabilityoffendersforensicadaptive functioningscreeningcourt diversionsex offendersfire setting
Type
Chapter
Information
Forensic Aspects of Neurodevelopmental Disorders
A Clinician's Guide
 , pp. 148 - 163
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2023

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