Maltreatment and Depression in Adolescent Sexual Offenders with an Autism Spectrum Disorder

• NCJ Number: 245115
• Journal: Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Dated: 2013 Pages: 72-89
• Author(s): Jessica Bleil Walters; Tammy L. Hughes; Lawrence R. Sutton; Stephanie N. Marshall; Laura M. Crothers; Cathryn Lehman; Dave Paserba; Vanessa Talkington; Rochelle Taormina; Ann Huang
• Date Published: 2013
• Length: 18 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined the self-reported presence and severity of abuse, neglect, and depressive symptoms for 43 adolescents adjudicated delinquent due to a sexual offense.

Abstract

This study examined the self-reported presence and severity of abuse, neglect, and depressive symptoms for 43 adolescents adjudicated delinquent due to a sexual offense. Twenty-seven of the adolescent sexual offenders were also diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, and 16 did not carry an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. Both groups reported moderate to high levels of abuse and neglect. Adolescent sexual offenders with an autism spectrum disorder reported significantly higher depressive symptoms than those without an autism spectrum disorder. Furthermore, of the group with an autism spectrum disorder, those reporting severe levels of emotional abuse and/or emotional neglect were more likely to also have depressive symptoms. Results suggest a need to tailor treatment programs to match the unique needs of sexual offenders. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.