Which statement best describes what can be definitively said about 'risk factors' related to autism spectrum disorder?

• A. There is a single gene that has been proven to cause all cases of autism.
• B. Autism is always caused by poor parenting and social environment.
• C. Vaccines have been definitively shown to be a major risk factor for autism.
• D. Certain genetic and environmental risk factors are associated with autism, but no single factor can be said to definitively cause the disorder.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'risk factors' in psychology: these are variables or conditions that increase the likelihood of developing a disorder but do not guarantee it will occur.
2. Recognize that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex condition influenced by multiple factors, including genetic and environmental components.
3. Evaluate each statement by comparing it to current scientific consensus: no single gene causes all autism cases, poor parenting is not a cause, and vaccines have not been shown to be a major risk factor.
4. Conclude that while certain genetic and environmental factors are associated with increased risk for autism, no single factor definitively causes the disorder.
5. Summarize that the best description acknowledges the multifactorial nature of autism risk without attributing it to one definitive cause.