Distinguishing Circumscribed Behavior in an Adolescent with Asperger Syndrome from a Pedophilic Act: a Case Report

Abstract

Several case reports in the literature mention sexual offenses committed by patients with Asperger syndrome. There are no clear data in the literature to distinguish circumscribed behavior from actions resulting from sexual arousal. In this case, we had to assess the criminal responsibility of an adolescent girl diagnosed with Asperger syndrome according to DSM-IV who had been charged with possession of child pornography and sharing this material on social media. This case is a reminder that circumscribed behavior in Asperger syndrome may cause forensic incidents or misunderstandings. When evaluating sexual offenses, it is critical to receive a detailed history of sexual development, the motives of actions, and social-sexual knowledge in order to distinguish circumscribed behavior from sexually deviant behaviors.