An examination of psychological assessment and intervention strategies as applied to the special population of offenders with an intellectual disability. Included are considerations of:

• the postulated link between intellectual ability and offending behaviour (including historical, socio-cultural, biological, psychological and methodological issues);
• major skills and methods for the assessment of offenders with an intellectual disability;
• descriptions of, and justifications for, intervention and management programs for this particular group of offenders;
• issues arising from the characteristics of special needs groups in this population, for example, sex offenders, offenders with dual disability (mental illness as well as intellectual disability);
• selected legal issues which may involve the clinician dealing with offenders with an intellectual disability; and
• Philosophical and ethical considerations in this area.

This subject examines the theoretical and practical mechanisms underlying the assessment and treatment of disabled offender populations. As such it will provide students with an understanding of, and experience in, the major skills and techniques used in the assessment of forensic disability clients. In addition students will be provided with clinically-oriented training in methods of management and rehabilitation, including the theoretical rationale underpinning these as well as techniques and outcomes of their practical application. Specific attention will be given to notable offender groups within the forensic disability field including sexual offenders, non-sexual violent offenders, arson and property offenders, and disabled offenders with substance abuse issues.