A recent online science documentary claimed that 'autism is almost purely a genetic condition inherited from parents.' The documentary featured the case of dizygotic (fraternal) twin brothers, Leo and Mason.
They were born at 36 weeks. Leo had a very low birth weight and suffered from temporary oxygen deprivation (anoxia) during a prolonged delivery. Mason was born at a healthy weight following a rapid, uncomplicated birth. By the time they reached age six, Leo was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), whereas Mason showed no developmental difficulties and met all typical milestones.
To what extent do you agree with the documentary's claim that autism is determined by genetic factors before birth? You must make reference to the context of Leo and Mason in your answer.
Practise Edexcel A Level Psychology Content with exam-style questions for A Level Psychology. 1,059 questions 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, matched to the Edexcel A Level Psychology (9PS0) specification and written in Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3 style. Every question includes a full worked solution and mark scheme, so you can see where marks are awarded rather than just whether you got the answer right.
