Autism, Online Offending, and Victimization

• By: Mary R. Cohen, PhD Reginald Candio, PsyD Autism Specialist/Forensic Evaluation
• July 5th, 2023
• bullying, criminal justice system, cybercrime, online disinhibition, online radicalization, online safety, sexual victimization, social isolation, Summer 2023 Issue, victimization
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Individuals on the autism spectrum are particularly vulnerable to committing online offenses, in many instances unwittingly. They are also victimized by online predators, financial scams, and extremist groups. Consequently, they are increasingly interacting with the criminal justice system as...

The Dangers of Engaging in Child Pornography (and How Education Can Prevent Heartbreak)

• By: Arlene Lechner, MEd Melissa Hochberg, MEd Ease Empowerment, Advocacy & Sexuality Education, LLC
• July 5th, 2023
• child pornography, consent, exploitation, law enforcement, legal consequences, online communities, online predators, online safety, social isolation, Summer 2023 Issue, vulnerability
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You are enjoying your morning cup of coffee and planning your day. Your young adult son with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is online in his room. There’s a forceful knock on the door. You open the door and find Federal Agents on your doorstep. They barge in to arrest your son and the rest is a...