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Polygenic Risk Theory of Autism - Coggle Diagram
Polygenic Risk Theory of Autism
Assumptions & Beliefs
Autism is highly heritable
No single autism gene → many SNPs combine
Small genetic effects add up to influence:
Brain development
Social communication
Behavior
Family patterns across generations:
Autism traits
ADHD
Anxiety
Language difficulties
Evidence & Logical Coherence
GWAS studies:
Hundreds to thousands of genetic variants identified
Shared genetic pathways:
Overlap with ADHD
Overlap with schizophrenia
Explains:
Diversity of autism
Variation in severity
Twin studies:
High concordance rates
Strong evidence for heritability
Criticisms & Opposing Views
Too broad:
Does not explain exact biological mechanisms
Risk ≠ diagnosis:
Many carry genes but do not develop autism
Environmental influence:
Developmental and social factors matter
Genetic determinism concerns:
Ignores neurodiversity
Overlooks lived experiences
Proposed Interventions
Early identification:
Use genetic risk scores
Monitor development early
Personalized support:
Tailored interventions (still emerging)
Family counseling:
Explain heritability
Discuss recurrence risks
Educational & behavioral focus:
No medical “cure”
Focus on support strategies