At the present time, we do not know which specific genes or combination of genes determine whether or not someone will be autistic or which genetic contributions contribute to someone’s level of support needs. Researchers have uncovered some recessive traits and mutations that contribute to whether or not someone will be autistic.
What It Means If a Diagnosis Runs in Families
Human beings are made up of DNA, which we inherit from our parents. This is why people might look similar to their parents or other family members, have health risks based on family history, or even have mannerisms or behaviors that are similar to family members. If a trait is passed down genetically through families, the trait is genetic. When people in your family have a trait or diagnosis, you are more likely to have that diagnosis compared to someone who does not have a family member with that diagnosis. Additionally, the likelihood that you will have a diagnosis increases based on how closely you are related to that family member. For example, you are more likely to share a diagnosis with a parent than with an aunt, uncle, or grandparent, since you share more genetics with your parents than with these extended family members. If one parent has a diagnosis, this is not a guarantee that their children will also meet the criteria for the diagnosis. Genetics are complicated, and environmental factors influence how our genes manifest. When an individual’s gene presentation changes as a result of their environment, this is known as epigenetics.
My Child (Or Another Relative) Was Diagnosed With Autism
Most people do not understand what autism is or the various ways an autistic person can look. Because of this, many people are surprised to learn that someone close to them has been diagnosed with autism. You might feel confused, and you might find yourself thinking, “How can that be an autistic trait? Everyone does that!” It might help to consider that others in your family are also autistic.
Should My Other Children Be Evaluated?
If an extended family member is diagnosed with autism, others in your family may also be autistic. It is not certain that your child will also be autistic. Still, if you notice that they exhibit sensory issues, struggle to communicate in a neurotypical way, or have a strong need to follow specific routines and rituals, they might benefit from being evaluated. If your child is autistic and is struggling in school, they can qualify for an Individual Education Plan or 504 plan to support them in the classroom. IEPs can include the following:
Time and space for sensory breaksAlternative presentation of education materialsHelp with learning subjects that give them trouble
Autistic children who struggle with emotion regulation can benefit from understanding their neurotype. This can help them recognize what needs they are communicating with different behaviors and get those needs met in a healthy way. Parents can connect with the autistic community to better understand their child and support them appropriately.
Should I Be Evaluated?
If your child (or another family member) is diagnosed with autism, it is possible that you are autistic as well. Many autistic people are not diagnosed in childhood and realize that they are autistic as adults. Additionally, some are misdiagnosed with disorders that have similar symptoms to autism, such as certain anxiety disorders. If you notice that you exhibit traits similar to those of an autistic relative, or your autistic child displays behaviors that remind you of your own childhood, you might be autistic as well. If you feel that a formal assessment would help you, you can seek out a psychological evaluation.
Support For Autistic Family Members
If you and/or a family member are autistic, you are existing and functioning in a world that was not created with your needs in mind. This can create challenges like sensory overload or miscommunication when held to neurotypical standards. The more we understand the different ways that autism can present, the better autistic people can understand and share their experiences. This knowledge can help autistic people request and receive appropriate support.
