The risk factors for criminal behaviour in high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFASDs): A comparison of childhood adversities between individuals with HFASDs who exhibit criminal behaviour and those with HFASD and no criminal histories

Most reports of the criminal behaviour of individuals with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (HFASD) have been case studies, and few have empirically examined the risk factors of criminal behaviour among these individuals. This study examined 175 individuals with HFASD, including 36 individuals who had a prior history of criminal behaviours (the criminal group) and 139 individuals without a criminal history (the control group), with regard to 15 types of childhood adversities (CAs). The age of initial HFASD diagnosis and history of neglect and physical abuse were significantly correlated with an increased risk of criminal behaviour. These findings agreed with previous studies on general populations. The unique characteristics of individuals with HFASD and a history of criminal behaviour are discussed.

► We empirically examined the risk factors for criminal behaviour in individuals with HFASD.
► 15 types of childhood adversities (CAs) were examined between the criminal group and the control group.
► The age of initial HFASD diagnosis, neglect and physical abuse were significantly related to presence of criminal behaviour.
► This result matched the previous report on general population.