Fragile X Syndrome and the Family

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability. Families of children with FXS must deal with all of the usual challenges of raising a child with a disability. In addition, the fact that FXS is inherited means that parents need to consider their own reproductive risk, determine whether other children are carriers, and inform extended family members. New research suggesting that carriers may also be affected adds further to the experience of fragile X for the family. This entry presents an overview of FXS and its consequences for families.