Studies investigating fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in the criminal justice system : a systematic PRISMA review

Allely, CS; Gebbia, P

Abstract

Within correctional/confinement settings, screening in order to detect Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders(FASD) or Alcohol-Related Neuro Developmental Disorder (ARND) is frequently lacking. The courts may not recognize FAS/ ARND which leads to inappropriate sentences for this vulnerable group. The primary objective of this systematic PRISMA review was to explore the peer reviewed literature which has investigated FASD in the criminal justice system. The present systematic PRISMA review explores the peer reviewed literature published since 1997 which has investigated using four
databases in addition to separate searches conducted on ‘Google Scholar’ using specific search criteria. Only five studies were identified in this review which investigated the prevalence of FASD in an offender
population. Only two studies were identified which investigated the psycho-legal abilities of offenders with FASD. Only three studies were identified which examined prenatal exposure to alcohol as potential risk factor for adverse outcomes. Only one study was identified which
investigated the knowledge and attitudes of FASD in criminal justice professionals. Overall, the studies identified in this review highlight the urgent need for the development of screening tool(s) for FASD which have demonstrated validity and for the implementation of routine screening for FASD. In terms of the implication for further research and practice, the studies identified in this review highlight that training needs in relation to FASD in correction systems are
substantial and require immediate attention. Important issues in formulating and implementing treatment programs for people with FASD in the corrections systems are also discussed.

Citation

Allely, C., & Gebbia, P. (2016). Studies investigating fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in the criminal justice system : a systematic PRISMA review. https://doi.org/10.15226/2374-6874/3/1/00123

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Jan 25, 2016
• Online Publication Date: Feb 12, 2016
• Publication Date: Feb 12, 2016
• Deposit Date: Apr 11, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Apr 11, 2016
• Journal: SOJ Psychology
• Volume: 3
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 1-11
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.15226/2374-6874/3/1/00123
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.15226/2374-6874/3/1/00123
• Related Public URLs: http://www.symbiosisonlinepublishing.com/psychology/articlesinpress.php