What is Fragile X?

In basic terms, Fragile X is a genetic condition which is the cause of most common inherited learning disabilities. Fragile X is also more common in men than in women, affecting 1 in 4000 and 1 in 6000 respectively.

Fragile X has many associated traits, and not everyone who has it will have all of those characteristics.

There are many potential effects associated with Fragile X, and each individual will only have some of them, in some cases almost none. The effects of fragile X appear to manifest differently in males and females, with females generally being less affected.

Some people with Fragile X will suffer from Epilepsy. This is around 15% of boys and 6-8% of girls.

What are the effects of fragile X on the individual?

• Strengths of Fragile X
• Good imitation skills
• Good visual learning skills
• Good long term memory
• Sensitivity to others’ emotions
• Likeable personalities
• Good sense of humour

Different Effects by Gender

Males

• More significant intellectual disability
• Moderate to more severe learning disabilities
• ADD
• ADHD
• Autism & Autistic Behaviours
• Social Anxiety
• Hand-Biting
• Hand-Flapping
• Poor Eye Contact
• Sensory Disorders
• Aggression

Females

• milder intellectual disability
• Moderate to mild learning disabilities, if at all
• Emotional Health Issues
• Mental Health Issues
• Social Anxiety
• General Anxiety

How Can We Support These Individuals?

1. One of the most obvious is to notice and encourage the use of some of the previously mentioned, or other, strengths.
2. Give them plenty of warning before transitions, like 5 or 10 minute prompts before moving between  classrooms.
3. From this, it is also a good idea to have a consistent routine so they know what to expect and when.
4. Don’t try to force eye-contact, some individuals with Fragile X find this uncomfortable.
5. Allow them frequent breaks to keep their attention focused on learning, this should include the opportunity to move around the room a little.
6. Provide visual cues to assist them in following instructions and sequential activities.
7. Some people with Fragile X are prone to hyper-arousal (high nervous system activation), so it is worth knowing what environmental factors cause it in an individual and to try to minimise this. Examples include sound, light, textures, taste, and smell.
8. Try not to put too much pressure on them to perform, i.e. not giving a strict time limit for tasks, as it can be difficult for them to cope with.

For More Information

The Fragile X Society                                                                                                                                

• Website: http://www.fragilex.org.uk  
• Helpline: 01371 87510Email: info@fragilex.org.uk
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefragilexsociety
• National Fragile X Foundation                                                                                                                  Website: https://fragilex.org/fragile-x/fragile-x-syndrome/

NHS National Genetics and genomics Education Centre

• Website: http://www.geneticseducation.nhs.uk/genetic-conditions-54/655-fragile-x-syndrome-new