An online scientific documentary series claimed that 'autism is entirely caused by non-genetic, environmental factors experienced during prenatal development and birth'. The series presented the case of identical twin sisters, Chloe and Zoe. During the pregnancy, Chloe suffered from twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, which led to significant intrauterine growth restriction and a very low birth weight, followed by neonatal hypoxia (oxygen deprivation). Zoe did not suffer from growth restriction, was born at a healthy weight, and had an uncomplicated neonatal period. By age four, Chloe was diagnosed with autism, while Zoe shows typical neurodevelopment and has not received a diagnosis.
To what extent do you agree with the documentary's assertion in relation to Chloe and Zoe that autism is entirely determined by environmental factors? You must make reference to the context in your answer.
84 exam-style questions on Edexcel A Level Psychology Content, covering Bowlby's work on attachment, Ainsworth and the Strange Situation, Research into deprivation, Research into privation, Research into day care, Cross-cultural research into attachment, Autism, Individual differences, and Developmental psychology. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.