Chasing Life What You’ve Wanted to Know About Autism but Were Too Afraid to Ask
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Apr 24, 2026 
Dr. Matthew Lerner, leading autism researcher and director of the Social Connections and Treatment Lab, offers clear takes on what being on the spectrum means. He outlines clinical definitions, why diagnoses have risen, and the roles of genetics and environment. He also tackles language choices, nonspeaking versus nonverbal communication, and how to think about causes without jumping to conclusions.
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Autism Begins In Utero
- Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that likely begins in utero, probably in the second trimester.
- Lerner notes researchers can sometimes predict autism as early as six to twelve months using cutting-edge detection methods.
Autism Is Largely Genetic
- Autism is largely genetic with an estimated heritability around 80 percent and many associated genes identified.
- Lerner compares autism heritability to height and cites about 102 genes now associated with autism.
What Spectrum Really Means
- Autism is a spectrum because symptoms manifest very differently across people and across development.
- Lerner emphasizes varied presentations: some are highly verbal, others have language challenges, and profiles can change with age and environment.