Reasons for Increase in Autism
Video Summary
Dr. Silverman discusses why autism rates may be increasing over time, including expanded diagnsotic criteria, increased sensistivity and awareness of autism, and, potentially, more environmental triggers of autism risk. Notably, environmental contributions are indicated given that increasing prevalence rates cannot be easily explained by purely genetic explanations. Dr. Silvermam also discusses how de novo mutation theories factor into growing prevalence rates.
"It may be that there are a range of reasons that contribute to those increasing numbers (of autism)."
— Jeremy Silverman, PhD