Beyond the Fragile X protein: neighborhood characteristics explain individual differences in IQ and adaptive behaviors of Fragile X syndrome

Our finding of stronger links between neighborhood resources and clinical outcomes in males with FXS is consistent with previous work and may reflect increased reliance on social-environmental supports in males who typically have more significant intellectual and adaptive deficits than females. Consistent associations between greater social resources, higher IQ, and stronger adaptive skills suggest social support (e.g., social cohesion, resource and knowledge sharing) may be a particularly salient target for intervention. Associations between economic resources and adaptive communication skills also highlight the benefits of targeted economic supports for families affected by FXS. Together, our findings underscore the role of social determinants of health as key contributors to individual differences and the importance of considering these factors in clinical studies of FXS.