Island of Ideas: Fairness on the Spectrum
Why are autistic people over-represented in the justice system and what needs to change?
In this year’s Scholars in Psychology Annual Public Lecture, Professor Robyn Young explores why autistic people are disproportionately represented in justice settings, how behaviours are often misinterpreted, and what can be done to create fairer outcomes. Drawing on decades of research, she offers practical insights into early detection, support and systemic change.
The Expert
Professor Robyn Young, Professor of Psychology, Flinders University.
Professor Young began her autism research in 1992 while investigating savant syndrome as part of her PhD work, which later featured in the ABC documentary Uncommon Genius. Since then, her research has advanced understanding of autism diagnosis and illuminated the unique challenges faced by autistic females, autistic people experiencing homelessness, and those with co-occurring conditions such as eating disorders.
Professor Young’s primary research focus examines how autistic people interact with the criminal justice system. As both a Clinical Psychologist and autism diagnostician, Professor Young has translated this work into practice, frequently preparing expert reports or appearing in court to provide capacity assessments and contextualise behaviour through an autism-informed lens.
Her expertise in forensic psychology and the justice interface led to the publication of Crime and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Myths and Mechanisms (Brewer & Young, 2015).