In the past decades, an impressive amount of linkage and association studies have been performed. However, conclusive evidence from the numerous genetic linkage and association studies has not yet been obtained. The studies have continuously led to inconsistent and controversial findings. In the next paragraphs, the genetic aetiology of the complex neurodevelopmental disorders is summarized. However, because positive associations are often published more easily one has to realize publication bias and the fact that even results obtained by meta-analysis may represent false positives.