First Responders’ Knowledge of and Training Needs in Autism

An Integration of Key Perspectives and Evidence-Based Practice

Bibliographic Data

ID23308566
AuthorsRose E A Nevill (0000-0002-4802-7128, University of Virginia, corresponding author), Rose Nevill, Bridgett Kiernan (University of Virginia), Leah Richardson (0000-0003-2368-3417, University of Virginia), Katiana Estrada (University of Virginia), Micah O Mazurek (0000-0001-7715-6538, University of Virginia), Micah Mazurek, R D Peppy Winchel, Ronald Winchel (Thomas Jefferson University)
Year2026
Publication date2026-07-20
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueCommunity Mental Health Journal (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0010-3853 • E-ISSN: 1573-2789
PublisherSpringer Science and Business Media LLC (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1007/s10597-026-01689-4
PMID42474658
OpenAlexW4417200355
LanguageEN
References cited56

Autistic people require frequent support from first responders (FRs) as a function of the core and associated features of their diagnosis; however, they often report negative experiences with FRs and avoid contacting 911. The goals of this study were to generate sustainable, community-informed training standards on autism that are applicable across branches of emergency response to address this concern. Autistic adults, caregivers of autistic people, and first responders were interviewed and surveyed to generate core recommendations, which were cross-referenced with evidence-based practices. Multiple recommendations emerged: FRs should be trained in autism identification and strategies focused on supporting sensory needs and communication; streamlining response efforts across responding units; identifying and involving the person’s best advocate to guide interactions; using special interests to support the person; and sharing resources to improve future interactions. FRs should be flexible in their implementation of procedures given the unique challenges many autistic people face. An Autism Response Protocol is proposed that outlines these key strategies to inform future first responder training in autism. This study has important practice implications for future autism training program standards in policing as well as across partnering FR disciplines.

Autism · Best practice · Core competency · Function (biology) · Identification (biology) · Key (lock) · Training (meteorology) · Autism Spectrum Disorder Research · Behavioral and Psychological Studies · Family and Disability Support Research

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