Exploring the experiences of an autistic male convicted of stalking

Journal article

Rawdon, N., Vinter, L.P., Allely, C. and Wheatley, R. 2024. Exploring the experiences of an autistic male convicted of stalking. Journal of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology. pp. 1-35. https://doi.org/10.1080/14789949.2024.2339537
AuthorsRawdon, N., Vinter, L.P., Allely, C. and Wheatley, R.
Abstract

Objective

Despite an increasing number of studies which examine the interplay between autism and offending mechanisms, there has been a lack of research investigating the interplay between autism and stalking. It was anticipated that findings from this investigation would inform future interventions with individuals with autism who stalk.

Design/Methods

This secondary data analysis research used a qualitative case study approach to explore the experiences of an individual with a High Functioning Autism (HFA) diagnosis, who had been convicted of stalking.

Results

Interview data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, to gain a rich understanding of stalking behaviour from the perspective of the individual, and to identify the key issues associated with Criminal Justice Service interventions. The following superordinate themes were identified; ‘What she means to me’, ‘Seeing the problem but the urge is too strong to stop’ and ‘Life after prison’.

Conclusions

A key implication of the findings was that autistic traits can play a contextual role within stalking behaviour. Future recommendations of a specifically tailored treatment approach recognising and considering autism-related responsivity issues are discussed.

KeywordsStalking; Autism; Neurodiversity; Criminal Justice System
Year2024
JournalJournal of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychology
Journal citationpp. 1-35
PublisherTaylor & Francis (Routledge)
ISSN 1478-9957
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1080/14789949.2024.2339537
Web address (URL)https://www.tandfonline.com/journals/RJFP
Accepted author manuscript
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Open
Publisher's version
License
File Access Level
Open
Output statusPublished
Publication dates
Online09 Apr 2024
Publication process dates
Accepted01 Apr 2024
Deposited22 Apr 2024
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