Preparing Officers for Encounters with Persons with Autism
Autism , or Autism Spectrum Disorder ( ASD ), refers to a group of complex neurodevelopment disorders that is characterized by repetitive behavior ( s ), impaired communication and social interaction abilities . Each individual is affected differently . Some persons with ASD are fully able to perform all activities of daily living while others require substantial support . 1
According to the United States Centers for Disease Control ( CDC ), 1 in 54 children ( 2.21 %) and 1 in 45 Adults ( 1.85 %) have ASD . 2
An 18-month study of 284 children with autism found that 16 % of the participants had an encounter with the police during the period . While verbally or physically aggressive behaviors were the primary reason for police involvement , most of the interactions did not result in the individual being arrested . Almost half ( 49 %) of the individuals ’ parents reported officers had a calming affect on the individual or no effect ( 17 %) at all . Approximately one-third of the encounters , the individual experienced an increased level of agitation . Parents reported being satisfied to very satisfied with the police officers ’ encounters with the individuals 68 % of the time .
Another study reported that up to 68 % of persons with ASD will display aggressive behaviors at some time . Because of this , it is important for officers to have an awareness of the common indicators of individuals with ASD and how to interact with them . Agencies are encouraged to ensure first responders are provided training on responding to persons who have Autism . This should include how to recognize the behavior , appropriate responses , and familiarization of the different alert systems the agency may use to ensure they have a positive interaction and outcome . While agencies may achieve this through in-service training , Crisis Intervention Training ( CIT ) provides officers with the awareness to identify an issue , skills to de-escalate the incident , and resources to refer individuals to other resources .
To better prepare officers for encounters and increase the likelihood of a positive interaction , some agencies have implemented processes to alert officers they may be encountering a person with ASD . Some have created ‘ vulnerable person registries ’ or alerts in their Emergency Communication Center ( ECC ) databases that include the individual ’ s name , address , and other identifying information along with unique characteristics and triggers for individuals with autism . In other cases , persons with ASD are provided cards to give officers identifying them has having autism .
Another creative approach many agencies are now using are Autism alert decals . Designed by a police officer , Autism alert decals are the shape of a multi-colored hand . While the decal may be blank , some contain ‘ buzz words ’ imprinted on the palm to alert first responders of behaviors the Autistic person in crisis may exhibit . The words are reflective to ensure they are visible at night .
When recommending the use of the decals , agencies should encourage they be placed on the rear window of their car and at entrances officers are most likely to use when they approach the residence .
56 FALL . 2020