Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), also known as Martin-Bell Syndrome, is a genetic disorder that does exhibit autistic-like behaviors such as poor eye contact, hand-flapping, hand-biting, poor sensory skills, behavioral problems, speech and language deficits and learning difficulties. Due to the many advances in science today, researchers and clinicians have a greater understanding of the differences and similarities between FXS and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). FXS is a specific identifiable condition with a known genetic cause and ASD is a cluster of symptoms with a possible variety of causes. Social interaction is a key deficit in ASD whereas intellectual function and hyperarousal/anxiety is the core deficit in FXS. Children with FXS want to have social interaction but their anxiety often prevents that, while children with ASD rarely seek out social interaction. FXS children demonstrate to have greater imitation skills than ASD children. Most behavioral issues in FXS are due to high anxiety and hyperarousal whereas with ASD the sources of behavioral problems can be multi-faceted and much more complex. Studies are ongoing to know further information about the overlap between FXS and ASD. Continuing research in this area will help parents, educators and clinicians distinguish the differences and similarities between FXS and ASD so that appropriate interventions can be implemented based upon individual needs and specific characteristics.
National Fragile X Foundation Description: The National Fragile X Foundation (FRAXA) is a non-profit research organization working toward finding a cure. They have funded over $25,000,000 toward research. Learn about their clinic trials and effective treatments.
National Human Genome Research Institute Description: NHGRI is all about advancing genome research. This site provides the clinical research on Fragile X Syndrome and the available additional resources. In addition, this site also provides a detailed explanation about Fragile X permutation.
Cleveland Clinic Description: Cleveland Clinic website for diagnostic testing needed to determine Fragile X Syndrome.
FRAXA Research Foundation Description: The National Fragile X Foundation (FRAXA) is a non-profit research organization working towards finding a cure. They have funded over $25,000,000 towards research. Learn about their clinic trials and effective treatments.
Some forums require you to sign in to Yahoo or Facebook to locate forum names.
Forum/Blog Name: Fragile X Syndrome Description: This Facebook group is a community page run by parents of children with Fragile X Syndrome and provides information and support.
Forum/Blog Name: Parent Forum for Families with Fragile X Syndrome Description: This is a special forum for parents and family members of children who have Fragile X Syndrome. The forum is intended to share and support one another in your quest to find a cure.
Forum/Blog Name: Important Resources for Families with Fragile X Syndrome Description: The Friendship Circle Blog provides valuable information for parents and professionals.
Forum/Blog Name: A Day at a Time Description: One family’s blog – Our life with Fragile X and a side of Autism.