Communication, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and youth justice
PhD Candidate: Natalie Kippin
PhD Title: Communication, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and youth justice
Summary
Communication competency is of significant vulnerability for young people in youth justice, and youth people living with FASD. Difficulties with communication has important implications for a young person’s social, emotional, educational and occupational success. This research aims to examine the communication abilities of young people sentenced to detention in Western Australia (WA), where a high prevalence of FASD and neurodevelopmental disorder has been identified. Outcomes are anticipated to inform youth justice approaches for supporting young people in their care.
The four studies of this PhD include:
- Reviewing what is already known about the communication profiles of adolescents with FASD?
- Describing the oral and written narrative abilities of young people sentenced to detention in WA?
- Identifying the overall communication profile of young people sentenced to detention in WA, including those living with FASD?
- Exploring the implications and opportunities for education and youth justice services in working with and supporting youth with communication vulnerabilities, including those with FASD.
Supervisors
- Associate Professor Suze Leitao (Curtin University)
- Dr Amy Finlay-Jones (FASD Research Australia CRE)
- Dr Rochelle Watkins (FASD Research Australia CRE)
For information about this PhD contact Natalie Kippin
The funding for this project is provided through a FASD Research Australia PhD Scholarship.