Understanding the Intersection of Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Sexual Behaviour: Navigating Complexities and Boundaries

Abstract

Neurodevelopmental disorders encompass a range of conditions characterised by the early emergence of neurocognitive deficits and a stable course over time. Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are prominent representatives of this group, exhibiting high overlap in symptom dimensions despite their phenotypic heterogeneity. Research suggests that individuals with ADHD face an increased risk of engaging in and being convicted of a broad range of criminal behaviours. International studies have consistently reported disproportionately higher rates of ADHD among both youth and adult offenders across various pathways of the criminal justice system. Regarding ASD, while existing literature generally indicates no elevated likelihood of convictions for violent offenses compared to the general population, conflicting data exist. Some studies suggest a higher propensity for crimes against people when comparing individuals with ASD to their peers without the condition. However, the comprehensive understanding of the involvement of individuals diagnosed with ADHD and ASD in specific forms of crime remains an open question. Sexual offending has been subject to various clinical impressions and multifactorial theories aiming to differentiate it from other criminal behaviours. Gaining insight into the aetiology of sexual coercion can inform the development of intervention and treatment strategies to mitigate its impact. This study aims to quantitatively synthesise evidence by comparing sexual offenders with non-sexual offenders in the context of the two most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders, ADHD, and ASD. The study also seeks to estimate the prevalence of these disorders among sexual offenders and ultimately provide a comprehensive assessment of whether ADHD or ASD can be considered risk factors for sexual offending.