Dealing with Autism and Neurodevelopmental Challenges in Public Safety

Summary Description of Workshop:

This first responder workshop provides an in depth look at safety, crime, and forensics related to autism and other neurodevelopmental challenges. Clinical features of this special population are illustrated with regard to interviews, social interactions, sensory triggers, and misconceptions about disability.

Court cases, video examples, and group participation will help attendees recognize symptoms and learn specific tactics when encountering an individual in crisis and unable to cope. Participants will learn to recognize a meltdown, de-escalate a situation, and interact accordingly when encountering an individual who may be stimming, hallucinating, naked, or wandering. These features may emerge whether the individual is a witness, suspect, or victim of a crime.

By becoming familiar, and by learning practical communication strategies, first responders will be able to manage stressful situations before they escalate into a full-blown crisis.