EPISODE 30
Autism and the Criminal Justice System: A Conversation with Nick Dubin
Autism and the Criminal Justice System: A Conversation with Nick Dubin
Play the Episode…
…and Continue the Discussion
Do you have a book or podcast club? If so, you may use this discussion guide to facilitate a conversation about this episode.
1) At the beginning of the podcast, Dave discussed his feelings about being involved in this podcast due to the topic being discussed. He mentioned that aspects of the topic triggered some strong feelings for him, which led to his decision about limiting his participation. Why was this an issue for Dave, and what are the implications for people on the spectrum who may be faced with emotionally challenging topics or circumstances?
2) Nick discussed some issues that put people on the spectrum at risk for having difficulties with law enforcement or the criminal justice system. What are some of the issues he discussed, and have you had or know of other individuals who’ve had personal experiences that are similar?
3) Nick made a number of suggestions for the needs for training of first responders, and those in the criminal justice system such as prosecutors. What were some of his suggestions, and can you add some to this list based on your experiences?
4) Nick expressed mixed feelings about the directions we are heading in improving the current state of affairs regarding autistic people and the criminal justice system. One positive trend is the use of “diversion”. What does this mean in providing greater understanding for autistic people when confronted with criminal justice issues? What were some of the reservations that Nick expressed about achieving greater progress?
Featuring
NICK DUBIN
Nick Dubin was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome (now ASD-level 1) in 2004. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Oakland University, a Master’s Degree in Learning Disabilities from the University of Detroit Mercy, and a Specialist Degree in Psychology and Psy.D. from the Michigan School of Professional Psychology. He has authored many books on autism spectrum disorders including Asperger Syndrome and Anxiety, also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. His latest book is entitled Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, and the criminal justice system. He also has personal experience of the CJS.
“I am a jazz buff, who was once a contestant on the Price is Right. I also played tennis on my high school and college teams at the number one singles position, making All State status my senior year in high school.”
Show Notes
Nick Dubin is an autistic author with professional expertise and personal experiences involving encounters with the criminal justice system. Nick shares his personal history highlighting some of the challenges experienced by an autistic person growing up in the 1980s and 1990s. The discussion then shifts to Nick’s experiences with the criminal justice system and how ill-prepared the system, at all levels, is in understanding the impact of autism on the behavior and reactions of autistic individuals. Our discussion is highlighted by Nick’s efforts to use his personal experiences to help others on the spectrum so that they do not have to deal with what he has experienced earlier in his life.
ENTHUSIASM OF THE WEEK
We welcome David Sharif on the episode today to share his Enthusiasm!
“I have been traveling the world since I was two months old. At a young age, I was impatient with delayed flights, concerned with security examining my luggage, and challenged by different communication styles. With numerous family vacations, and independent expeditions, I have learned how to adapt to the unknowns. I have valuable advice for future travelers.”
Thank you for sharing, David!
DAVID SHARIF
