The function of the crime in highly functioning autism and clinical forensic implications: Aspects of differential diagnosis and psychiatric comorbidity

Abstract

This work analyzes the function of crime in highly functioning autism. It examines the
multiple psycho-emotional areas involved in this process.
The aspects of differential diagnosis and psychiatric comorbidity with some disorders more
related to level 1 autism are deepened. Therefore, the consequent implications on a clinical
and forensic level are highlighted. The paper starts from the examination of how the Italian
legal system interfaces with mental disorder.
The role that the legal system attributes to neuroscience in analyzing the responsibility profile
of a person with mental disorder and, in particular, of a person with level 1 autism who
commits a crime, is highlighted.
In this regard, the function of the most common crimes is examined. The differences between
level 1 autism and antisocial and schizophrenic disorder are highlighted.
The focus is on the exploration of clinical symptoms in terms of function. Through a critical
analysis of the studies highlighted in the literature, the fundamental factor for the correct
identification of the differential diagnosis and, consequently, of psychiatric comorbidity is
described.
It is represented by the examination of the defensive process from which the symptoms
originate. The same symptomatic manifestation can, in fact, represent different problems and
pathologies.
The focus is therefore placed on the importance of a particularly in-depth clinical forensic
assessment where defense mechanisms are examined.
The purpose of this article is to highlight the opportunity to apply new and more complete
assessment and diagnosis tools in the legal context.
Keywords: Autism, Diagnosis, Comorbidities