Forensic psychology expert visits NZ

International expert in forensic psychology is visiting NZ to discuss the link between Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and crime

The negative outcomes of drinking during pregnancy will be the focus of a seminar in Auckland tomorrow.

The free seminar entitled ‘Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and Justice’ will be held on Wednesday 31 March from 9am till 4pm at Barrycourt Hotel in Parnell. It will explore the link between individuals affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and their increased risk of being in trouble with the law.

Here to present the seminar is guest speaker Dr Natalie Novick Brown, an Assistant Professor of Psychology from the University of Washington in Seattle USA and a specialist in forensic psychological assessments for adolescents and adults with FASD.

Dr Novick Brown says that the likelihood of somebody with FASD getting into trouble with the law is much higher than somebody who is unaffected.

“Not everyone with a Fetal Alcohol disorder will commit crime. However the nature of the disability is such, that they are often very good at getting into trouble and not very good at getting out of it.

“Professionals working with affected individuals are able to make a difference by identifying the disability and creatively managing it.”

The seminar, hosted by Alcohol Healthwatch, aims to provide important information for those working with at risk individuals her in New Zealand.

Alcohol Healthwatch’s Christine Rogan, who coordinates the Fetal Alcohol Network says it is important that people understand the link between drinking during pregnancy and the difficulties this can lead to later in life.

“This harm can easily be prevented, firstly by not drinking alcohol during pregnancy, and secondly by better understanding and support for those children born affected.”

Further details about the seminar are available on the Alcohol Healthwatch website, www.ahw.org.nz.

ENDS

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