The contributory role of autism symptomology in child pornography offending: why there is an urgent need for empirical research in this area

Abstract

Ti t l e Th e c o n t ri b u t o ry r ol e of a u tis m sy m p t o m olo gy in c hil d p o r n o g r a p hy offe n di n g :

Contributory role of autism spectrum disorder symptomology to the viewing of indecent images of children (IIOC) and the experience of the criminal justice system

“…Currently, the understanding of the association between ASD and engaging in viewing of IIOC is poorly recognised and understood both by the general public as well as clinical and legal professionals. The importance of addressing this has been recently raised (Dubin & Horowitz, 2017;Allely & Dubin, 2018;Allely, Kennedy, & Warren, 2019). The case presented here stresses the importance of early recognition and diagnosis of ASD in order to receive a fair trial (see also .…”

Autism spectrum disorder, bestiality and zoophilia: a systematic PRISMA review

“…It has also been suggested that they more often access the media and pornography in an attempt to gain information about sex. This can often lead to unintentional online offending in some cases (see Allely & Dubin, 2018). Many individuals with ASD have insight into their own impairments in relation to romantic relationships which has an adverse impact on their social relationships (Stokes, Newton, & Kaur, 2007;Brown-Lavoie, Viecili, & Weiss, 2014; Barnett & Maticka-Tyndale, 2015;Parchomiuk, 2018 In a survey with individuals with ASD and typically developing individuals, Mehzabin and Stokes (2011) found that individuals with ASD have less adaptive sexual knowledge and behaviours, reported less social behaviour (e.g., going out with friends), less education about sex and sexuality and less sexual experience (Mehzabin & Stokes, 2011).…”

Thematic Study on Extrinsic Factors of Sexual Misconduct by Individuals with Autism

“…Most people with autism receive information about sex on the internet, television and pornography compared to parents, friends and teachers following the stigma of community on sexual issues (Curtis 2017) as well as being difficult to interact with their peers (Allely & Dubin, 2018). The portrayal of sexuality and intimacy from such sources may not be appropriate (Higgs & Carter 2015), but it is possible that the information absorbed by individuals with autism about sex is completely misleading (Beddows & Brooks 2016).…”

“…The portrayal of sexuality and intimacy from such sources may not be appropriate (Higgs & Carter 2015), but it is possible that the information absorbed by individuals with autism about sex is completely misleading (Beddows & Brooks 2016). For example, individuals with autism who watch child pornography on the internet are less likely to understand that sexual activity with children is criminal (Allely & Dubin, 2018) thus attempt to practice such sexual activity with children (Ray et al, 2004). The involvement of individuals with autism with child sexual abuse dragged the individual into more dangerous situations due to charges against the child would result in more severe penalties.…”