Studies have long established that individuals with disabilities are disproportionately criminally victimized. The risk of being a victim of crime, especially a victim of sexual assault, is 4 to 10 times higher for an individual with a disability.
Understanding and communicating effectively with adults and older adults with disabilities--including intellectual disabilities, autism and other developmental disabilities who are victims of abuse--are necessary skills for adult protective services professionals, law enforcement, district attorneys, clinicians and other social service personnel who may work with these individuals who have been victimized.
Participants in this training will:
- Develop a broader understanding of intellectual disability, autism and other developmental disabilities as well as new strategies for effective interviewing and communicating.
- Describe the unique characteristics of individuals with autism, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy and communication disorders that increase the risk of abuse
- Demonstrate an understanding of verbal communication in the context of communicating with and interviewing individuals with disabilities
- Recall specific interview techniques for use in the investigative and legal environments to optimize communication with adults and older adults with disabilities
Course Code
504822