Crisis Services
ASERT does not offer crisis services through our Resource Center. If you or someone you love is experiencing mental health distress or thoughts of suicide please call or text 988 for support.
Signs of Autism: A Guide for Justice System Professionals
Tips & Resources
Overview
This visual resource was developed by ASERT for justice system professionals to use as a reference guide when working with individuals with autism.
Repetitive Behaviors
- Flapping, flicking, spinning, rocking
- Focuses on one topic/detail that is unrelated to the conversation
- Scripting or repeating sounds o (e.g. repeat lines of a television show or movie)
Individual History
- Reported history of other developmental delays/diagnoses
- History/current substance use/abuse o due to social desirability, self-medicating
- Other concerns about individual’s development
- Does not display age-appropriate knowledge of sex and sexual boundaries
Mental Processes
- Displays poor impulse control
- (e.g. constantly touching an object despite being told/given consequences)
- Processing delay/Unable to follow a chain of commands
- (e.g. put your coat on the chair, sit down, and put your phone on the table)
Social Communication
- Flat vocal affect o (e.g. voice stays at one tone with little to no inflection)
- Unusual facial grimaces
- Avoidance of eye contact or blank stare throughout conversation
- Individual has no friends or is socially isolated
- May appear stubborn, defiant, or non-compliant with requests
- Atypical or stiff body language flat facial expressions
- Overly literal interpretation of questions
- Increased aggravation/anxiety during interview
- Overly agreeable
- Appears to have a lack of sympathy or empathy
Sensory Behaviors
- May be sensitive to touch
- especially if unexpected
- Overwhelmed by sensory environment
- (e.g. covers ears, eyes, nose)
Key Signs
- Lack of eye contact
- Flapping, Flicking, Spinning
- Sensitive to touch
- May appear stubborn/resistant
- Scripting words, phrases, or noises
- Processing delays
Have a question about autism? Contact the ASERT Resource Center at 877-231-4244
This information was developed by the Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training Collaborative (ASERT). For more information, please contact ASERT at 877-231-4244 or info@PAautism.org. ASERT is funded by the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations, PA Department of Human Services.