Joanna Ting Wai Chu, Holly Wilson, Jessica C. McCormack, Valerie McGinn,
Warren Brookbanks & Chris Bullen (08 Jan 2024): Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards
fetal alcohol spectrum disorder among lawyers in New Zealand, Psychiatry, Psychology and
Law, DOI: 10.1080/13218719.2023.2243310
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.1080/13218719.2023.2243310
Abstract
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a developmental disability that can cause difficulties with communication, emotional regulation and executive function, making people with FASD vulnerable to adverse involvement within the criminal justice system. Justice professionals’ knowledge and attitudes of FASD is critical to identifying appropriate responses, management and sentencing in the justice system. This research aims to understand the FASD knowledge, attitudes and practices among lawyers working in the justice sector in Aotearoa, New Zealand. We conducted an online survey on the awareness, knowledge and beliefs of FASD, experience and professional practice with FASD of justice professionals working in the justice sector in New Zealand. Of the 56 participants, most were lawyers. All participants were aware of FASD but had gaps in their knowledge and few felt well prepared to support someone with FASD. There is a need to develop policies, training and support for lawyers, around FASD.