Identifying fetal alcohol syndrome among youth in the criminal justice system

A disproportionately large number of youth and adults with fetal alcohol sy ndrome (FAS) and fetal alcohol effects (FAE) seem to be coming into conflic t with the legal system. Learning and behavioral difficulties associated wi th FAS/FAE may make them more susceptible to criminal behavior. This study determined the prevalence of FAS/FAE among youth who were remanded for a fo rensic psychiatric/psychological assessment. All youth remanded to a forens ic psychiatric inpatient assessment unit over a 1-year period were evaluate d for FAS/FAE. Of the 287 youth, 67 (23.3%) had an alcohol-related diagnosi s: 3 (1.0%) had a diagnosis of FAS and 64 (22.3%) had a diagnosis of FAE. T hus, this group is disproportionately represented in the juvenile justice s ystem, indicating the need for increased education and awareness among thos e in the criminal justice system involved with these youth.