Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual’s social, communication, and behavior skills. It’s a spectrum disorder that can range from mild to severe.
Autism is a genetic disorder, meaning it can be inherited from either parent. Research suggests that genetics are responsible for up to 90% of cases of autism. While autism is not directly inherited from either the mother or father, certain genes associated with autism can be passed down from either parent, increasing the risk of a child developing the disorder.
In addition to genetics, environmental factors such as exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, certain infections, or complications during pregnancy, can also play a role in the development of autism.
Research has found that fathers have a greater genetic impact on autism than mothers. Studies have shown that fathers are more likely to pass on autism-linked genetic mutations to their children than mothers. Fathers also tend to have a greater number of new genetic mutations in their sperm than mothers have in their eggs, and these mutations can increase the risk of autism in their children.
In conclusion, while autism does not necessarily run in either the mother or father, both parents can pass on autism-linked genetic mutations to their children, increasing their risk of developing the disorder. Environmental factors can also play a role.