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.
Practise Edexcel A Level Psychology Content with exam-style questions for A Level Psychology. 1,059 questions covering Biological explanations of crime, Social explanations of crime, Cognitive and ethical interview techniques, Psychological formulation of offending, Cognitive-behavioural treatment for offenders, Biological treatment for offenders, Factors influencing eye-witness testimony, Factors influencing jury decision-making, 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.
