Call for Papers: Forensic & Criminal Justice Issues in Intellectual Disabilities and Autism
DETAILS
Call for Papers: Forensic and Criminal Justice Health System Issues from Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Perspective
Journal
Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities
Submission Deadline
31 July 2026
Introduction
Researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and professionals working in the fields of intellectual disabilities, autism, forensic mental health, and criminal justice systems are invited to submit scholarly contributions for a forthcoming Special Issue of the journal Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities.
This special issue aims to explore the complex intersection between intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum conditions, and involvement in forensic and criminal justice health systems. Individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism are often at risk of falling between mainstream healthcare services and forensic support systems, leading to gaps in treatment, assessment, and social support.
The issue welcomes innovative research, policy analysis, clinical insights, and practice-based studies that highlight effective ways to understand, assess, and support individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism who are involved—or at risk of becoming involved—in criminal justice processes.
Contributions from international researchers and interdisciplinary professionals are encouraged in order to advance knowledge, improve service provision, and inform policy development across global contexts.
Aim of the Special Issue
The objective of this special issue is to:
Examine the relationship between intellectual disabilities, autism, and offending behaviour.
Explore clinical, social, and systemic challenges faced by individuals navigating forensic and criminal justice health services.
Present evidence-based treatment models and interventions.
Identify policy gaps and service delivery barriers.
Promote research that strengthens inclusive and effective support systems for vulnerable populations.
List of Topic Areas
Submissions are invited on a wide range of themes including (but not limited to):
Research Area | Description |
|---|---|
Nature of Intellectual, Learning and Developmental Disabilities | Studies examining characteristics, causes, and epidemiology of disabilities related to offending behaviour |
Offending Behaviour | Research exploring patterns, types, and risk factors associated with offending among individuals with intellectual disabilities |
Cross-Cultural Comparisons | Comparative studies examining how different countries address forensic and criminal justice issues related to intellectual disabilities |
Treatment Approaches | Evidence-based interventions, rehabilitation programs, and therapeutic models |
Diagnostic Issues | Challenges in identifying intellectual disabilities or autism within forensic and criminal justice settings |
Risk Assessment and Management | Tools, frameworks, and strategies used for evaluating and managing risk |
Service User and Carer Perspectives | Research capturing lived experiences, needs, and views of individuals and their caregivers |
Autism-Focused Research | Studies specifically examining autism within forensic and justice systems |
Guest Editor
The special issue will be edited by:
Verity Chester
Hertfordshire Partnership NHS University Trust
University of East Anglia, United Kingdom
For queries or informal discussions regarding submissions, authors may contact:
Email: v.chester@nhs.net
Authors may also contact the journal’s Commissioning Editor:
Thomas Barker
Email: tbarker@emerald.com
Submission Information
All manuscripts must be submitted through the ScholarOne Manuscripts submission system.
Authors are required to:
Register and log in to the ScholarOne platform.
Follow the journal’s author guidelines strictly before submission.
Select the Special Issue title from the drop-down menu during the submission process in response to:
“Please select the issue you are submitting to.”
Important Requirements
Manuscripts must not have been previously published.
Submissions must not be under review elsewhere at the time of submission.
Articles will undergo a peer-review process according to journal standards.
Key Dates
Event | Date |
|---|---|
Opening Date for Submissions | 18 March 2026 |
Manuscript Submission Deadline | 31 July 2026 |
Peer Review & Editorial Decision | After submission deadline |
Who Should Submit?
This special issue is particularly relevant for:
Academic researchers in psychology, psychiatry, criminology, and social sciences
Professionals working in forensic mental health services
Policy researchers studying criminal justice systems
Clinicians supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism
Organizations working in disability advocacy and support services
The special issue of Advances in Mental Health and Intellectual Disabilities offers an important platform to explore the intersection of intellectual disabilities, autism, and forensic or criminal justice health systems. By bringing together international research, policy insights, and practical perspectives, this issue aims to improve understanding and support for individuals who often fall between mainstream and forensic services. Researchers and practitioners are encouraged to submit their original work and contribute to advancing knowledge and effective practices in this critical area before the 31 July 2026 submission deadline.
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