Promoting Greater Understanding and Knowledge Transfer to Interest Holders in Discussions of Neurodevelopmental Disorders and the Criminal Justice System

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), intellectual developmental disorder (IDD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) intersect with the criminal justice system in complex and often misunderstood ways. While public and professional discourse has evolved, significant gaps remain in how scientific knowledge is transferred to those who shape policy, deliver clinical care, or interact with justice-involved individuals. This article examines how misinformation, stigma, and outdated perceptions continue to shape narratives around NDDs and criminality. It challenges the notion that the problem lies in a lack of research, proposing instead that the key issue is ineffective dissemination. By spotlighting prevailing myths and highlighting missed opportunities for evidence-informed responses, the authors call for a shift toward inclusive, accessible, and collaborative knowledge sharing that involves individuals with NDDs in meaningful ways.

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