Law and Neurodiversity: Youth with Autism and the Juvenile Justice Systems in Canada and the United States

Law and Neurodiversity provides guidance on how autism research can inform and improve juvenile justice policies in Canada and the United States, examining the history of institutionalization, disability rights, and advances in juvenile justice that incorporate considerations of neurological difference.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 08 March 2021
Publisher: University of British Columbia Press

Law and Neurodiversity provides essential insights into how autism research can inform and enhance juvenile justice policies in Canada and the United States. This insightful work delves into the historical context of institutionalization, the evolution of disability rights, and the advancements in juvenile justice that incorporate considerations of neurological diversity into court practices. In Canada, a notable approach has been the diversion of delinquent autistic youth from formal processing, leading to the development of community-based strategies under state authority. On the other hand, US policies rely more heavily on formal responses, often involving detention in juvenile custody facilities. These contrasting approaches have significant implications for the delivery of services such as education to youth with autism.

Building upon a rigorous examination of assessment, rehabilitation, and community re-entry practices between the two countries, Law and Neurodiversity offers a much-needed comparative analysis of autism and juvenile justice policies on both sides of the forty-ninth parallel. This comprehensive study sheds light on the disparities and similarities in approaches, highlighting areas for improvement and fostering a more inclusive and effective system for addressing the needs of youth with autism within the juvenile justice system.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780774861373