A preliminary study of individuals with autistic spectrum disorders in three special hospitals in England

There was a concern among Special Hospitals professionals to establish the numbers of people with an autistic spectrum disorder detained under mental health legislation in secure psychiatric hospitals in England and whether such settings are appropriate. This paper reports on the first full-scale empirical study of the prevalence of autistic spectrum conditions among the population of the three Special Hospitals in England. A total of 1305 patients were assessed using a screening questionnaire for autistic spectrum disorders in adults. This yielded a total of 240 patients, approximately 18% of the total Special Hospital population, to be further examined on the basis of their apparent impairments in social and interpersonal functioning. Of these, 215 were available for investigation. The prevalence of autistic conditions in this group of patients is estimated. Psychiatric and neurological characteristics and the nature of the offences or behaviour leading to compulsory detainment are examined. Some of the questions relating to meeting the needs of this group of people are discussed. Suggestions for further study are made.