Banksia Hill FASD Prevalence Study (2018)
What was at stake
FASD prevalence in youth detention
What happened
The Banksia Hill FASD Prevalence Study involved comprehensive diagnostic assessments of young people detained at the Banksia Hill Detention Centre in Western Australia. The study revealed that a staggering 36% of these young detainees were living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, a neurodevelopmental condition. Critically, none of these individuals had received a prior diagnosis of FASD, highlighting a significant gap in identification and support for a highly vulnerable population within the youth justice system.
What the court decided
36% of Banksia Hill detainees had FASD — highest rate ever recorded globally in any custodial setting. None had been previously diagnosed. Raises fundamental questions about criminal culpability.
Categories
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