FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Do all kids with FAS have mental retardation? No. Although FAS is a leading cause of mental retardation in the U.S., many individuals with FAS have an IQ in the average range. Studies have documented that the IQ's of individuals with FAS range from 20-120.
   
   
2. Is there a treatment for FAS? Although there is no known cure for FAS, there are many techniques and strategies used in working with individuals with FAS. FAS is not a condition that can be outgrown, but that does not mean there is no hope. Many documented techniques and strategies have been shown to positively impact the lives of people with FAS. Early intervention and recognition is the key. For more intervention strategies, see our page of intervention strategies.
   
   
3. I have heard that FAS causes temper tantrums, lying, cheating and stealing. Is that true? FAS itself does cause these behaviors. We must look instead at what these behaviors are trying to communicate. If an individual lacks certain communication skills and an understanding of cause and effect, these behaviors may be the only the tool that the individual possesses to communicate frustration, discomfort and lack of understanding. Ann Streissguth (1996) has conducted a long-term study of the secondary disabilities associated with FAS (http://depts.washington.edu/fadu/).
   
   
4. Why do women choose to drink when they are pregnant when they know that alcohol can cause harmful effects? Choice is not the issue for most women who drink large quantities of alcohol during pregnancy. Alcoholism is a progressive disease that can prevent a woman from maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Other issues that are a factor in alcoholism include domestic violence, including sexual, verbal, and physical abuse; lack of available resources; and lack of access to care. For more information on the importance of woman's treatment issues, please contact the Wisconsin Women's Education Network on Addiction and Recovery (WWEN) at (608) 265-2679.
   
   
5. Where can I find an FAS support group? How can I begin a support group in my area? How can I begin a support group in my area? The National Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (NOFAS) maintains a national directory. To find a support group in your area, please to go here
   
   FEN can offer tips and suggestions on how to start a support group.
   [E-mail FEN]
   
   
6. Where can I get current and accurate information on FAS? FEN has free information compiled from various resources that can be mailed in addition to an extensive lending library complete with videos, books and articles. Information on FAS is also available on-line. A good source is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) FAS Page: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fas/default.htm
   
   
7. I am considering adopting a child that has FAS. What would you recommend? The adoption of any child is a personal decision, and while we can provide information on FAS, the decision is ultimately up to you. We recommend that you learn about FAS from a variety of sources and consider talking with a parent currently raising children with this condition. Finally, most families recommend building a strong personal and professional support network.
   
   
8. Is there a treatment facility for individuals with FAS? Parents seeking out of home placement for a child or adolescent with FAS is a common call received by FEN. While we are not aware of specific FAS treatment/residential facilities, many parents have reported to us they find success with mental health facilities rather than facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Contact your state social services department for more information regarding group homes and other alternate living situations. Another helpful suggestion from parents is to try placing the individual with FAS into a supported living apartment. While this does not mean that all individuals with FAS need support to live, this one option for families struggling with issues that make it difficult to keep the family intact.