Neurodivergence: A Family Business

At Like Minds, we believe that understanding neurodiversity starts with recognizing that it is, at its core, a family trait. Autism and ADHD don’t just appear out of nowhere—they are primarily genetic. Studies show that autism is one of the most highly heritable conditions, with approximately 80% (or more) of cases linked to genetic inheritance.

This means that if you have an autistic or ADHD-diagnosed child, there is a high likelihood that one or both parents—and possibly even grandparents or extended family—are also neurodivergent, whether diagnosed or not.

Neurodivergence Has an Evolutionary Purpose

This is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it makes a lot of sense from an evolutionary perspective. Throughout history, individuals with neurodivergent traits have contributed to society in meaningful ways—whether through heightened pattern recognition, hyperfocus, creative problem-solving, or the ability to see and think differently from the norm. In The Pattern Seekers, Simon Baron-Cohen describes how human innovation has been driven by autistic thinkers, stating:

"The genes for autism have been naturally selected because they are linked to the ability to systemize—analyzing patterns and spotting regularities, which in turn drive invention and discovery."

Neurodivergent individuals have unique strengths that have made them successful in business, science, technology, and the arts. Many parents of autistic or ADHD children are entrepreneurs, engineers, artists, or problem-solvers who thrive in unconventional careers that reward out-of-the-box thinking.

Why More Kids Are Getting Diagnosed Today

So why does it seem like more children are being diagnosed with autism and ADHD today than in previous generations? There are two main reasons:

1. Increased Awareness & Better Diagnosis

   • Many neurodivergent adults of past generations were never diagnosed because society had a limited understanding of autism and ADHD. Today, more children are being identified earlier, leading parents to recognize neurodivergent traits in themselves.

     
     

2. Modern Society Exacerbates Neurodivergence

   • The rise of processed foods, artificial lighting, increased screen time, and overstimulating environments has amplified the challenges neurodivergent individuals face. What might have been manageable in a simpler, more predictable world is now overwhelming, leading to more noticeable struggles that push families to seek diagnoses and support.

     
     

The Genetic Puzzle: Autism Runs in Families

Our DNA is extraordinarily complex, and while scientists have not pinpointed exactly which genes determine whether someone is autistic or ADHD, the research is clear: neurodivergence runs in families.

• If one parent is autistic, their child has a high likelihood of being autistic.

• If an older sibling is diagnosed with autism or ADHD, younger siblings have an increased chance of also being neurodivergent.

• Studies show that autism has “negligible shared environmental contributions”, meaning that while environment matters, genetics plays the dominant role.

  
  

This is why many parents only realize their own neurodivergence after their child is diagnosed. They start reflecting on their own childhood experiences—sensory sensitivities, social struggles, hyperfocus, or feeling "different"—and things suddenly click.

Should You Consider an Autism or ADHD Evaluation?

If your child has been diagnosed, it may be worth considering whether you, your co-parent, or other family members could also be neurodivergent. A formal evaluation isn't required to embrace your neurodivergence, but it can provide:

• Self-understanding: Many neurodivergent adults experience "aha" moments when they learn about autism and ADHD.

• Better strategies: Understanding your brain’s wiring can help you develop routines, accommodations, and techniques to work with your strengths instead of fighting against them.

• Stronger connections: Recognizing shared neurodivergent traits within your family can help build empathy and mutual support.

  
  

Supporting Neurodivergent Families

At Like Minds, we rely on the most up-to-date research in genetics, neurobiology, and psychology to help individuals and families navigate neurodivergence. Whether you are a diagnosed autistic/ADHD adult or just starting to explore what neurodivergence means for your family, understanding your genetic wiring can be a game-changer.

Neurodivergence is not a disorder to be "fixed." It is a natural variation of the human brain—one that has powered innovation and progress throughout history. Recognizing it as a family trait allows us to move past stigma and into empowerment.

If you're wondering whether neurodivergence runs in your family, you're not alone. Let's embrace the strengths that come with it and support each other in building environments where we thrive—not just survive.