Breaking Down The Whitaker Family: Inbred and Isolated in West Virginia

The Whitaker family of Odd, West Virginia, has gained notoriety for their extreme isolation and the visible effects of inbreeding. Their story, captured in documentaries and online videos, raises complex questions about poverty, disability, genetic health, and societal responsibility in forgotten corners of America. This explainer breaks down the key aspects of their situation.

Who are the Whitakers?

The Whitaker family is a multi-generational family residing in a remote area of Raleigh County, West Virginia. The family first gained attention in the early 2000s when photographer Mark Laita encountered them while working on a photography project. Laita documented the family’s living conditions and the visible signs of potential cognitive and physical impairments, leading to speculation about the role of inbreeding in their condition. While the exact genetic relationships aren't publicly documented in a formal pedigree, family members have suggested close blood relations between parents in previous generations.

What is the issue?

The primary issue is the apparent impact of inbreeding on the family’s health and well-being. Inbreeding, the mating of closely related individuals, increases the likelihood of offspring inheriting recessive genes for genetic disorders. According to the National Human Genome Research Institute, inbreeding increases the risk of autosomal recessive disorders. While specific diagnoses haven't been publicly confirmed for all family members, some Whitakers exhibit signs of cognitive impairment, limited communication skills, and physical abnormalities. This is coupled with extreme poverty, social isolation, and limited access to healthcare and social services.

When did this story come to light?

The Whitaker family's story began to circulate widely in the early 2000s after Mark Laita's initial photographs and short film. Laita revisited the family multiple times over the years, documenting their evolving circumstances. His work gained significant traction on YouTube and other online platforms, sparking widespread discussion and debate about the family's condition and the ethical considerations surrounding documenting and sharing their story. Renewed interest surged in recent years, driven by viral videos and increased media coverage.

Where are the Whitakers located?

The Whitaker family resides in the community of Odd, Raleigh County, West Virginia. This area is characterized by its rural setting, limited infrastructure, and economic challenges. The family's isolation is compounded by the remoteness of their home, which is located down a dirt road, further limiting their access to the outside world and essential services. West Virginia, as a whole, struggles with poverty rates significantly higher than the national average. In 2022, the poverty rate in West Virginia was 16%, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, compared to the national average of 11.5%.

Why did this happen? What are the causes?

The circumstances surrounding the Whitaker family are multifaceted, stemming from a combination of factors:

• Inbreeding: The most discussed factor is the likelihood of inbreeding within the family's history. This dramatically increases the chances of recessive genetic disorders manifesting in offspring, leading to the cognitive and physical challenges observed.


• Poverty and Lack of Opportunity: The family's location in a region with limited economic opportunities perpetuates a cycle of poverty. This limits access to education, healthcare, and other resources that could improve their quality of life.


• Social Isolation: The family's isolation, both geographically and socially, further exacerbates their challenges. Limited interaction with the outside world can hinder their access to information, support networks, and opportunities for personal growth.


• Lack of Access to Healthcare: Living in a rural area with limited healthcare facilities and resources poses a significant barrier to accessing medical care. This is especially problematic when dealing with complex genetic conditions that require specialized treatment and ongoing monitoring.

Historical Context:

The Whitaker family's situation is not unique in the history of Appalachia. Historically, geographic isolation in the Appalachian region created pockets of communities with limited access to outside influences. This, coupled with cultural norms and a lack of accessible transportation, could sometimes lead to higher rates of consanguineous marriages (marriages between close relatives). While not exclusive to Appalachia, the region's unique circumstances likely contributed to the persistence of such practices in certain isolated areas. Furthermore, the legacy of poverty and limited access to resources in Appalachia has created a cycle of disadvantage that can be difficult to break.

Current Developments:

Mark Laita continues to document the Whitaker family's life, providing updates on their well-being and living conditions through his YouTube channel and other platforms. Recent videos show the family receiving donations and support from viewers, which have helped improve their living conditions. There have also been efforts to connect the family with resources and support services, although the extent of their engagement with these services remains unclear.

Likely Next Steps and Potential Solutions:

Addressing the complex challenges faced by the Whitaker family requires a multi-pronged approach:

• Medical Care: Providing comprehensive medical evaluations and ongoing care for family members, including genetic counseling and treatment for any diagnosed conditions.


• Social Services: Connecting the family with social workers and support services to address their needs related to housing, food security, and access to transportation.


• Educational Opportunities: Exploring opportunities for education and skills training for family members who are able to participate, to improve their prospects for future employment and self-sufficiency.


• Community Support: Encouraging community involvement and support to reduce social isolation and promote inclusion.


• Ethical Considerations: Continued discussion and reflection on the ethical considerations surrounding documenting and sharing the stories of vulnerable populations, ensuring their privacy and dignity are respected.

The Whitaker family's story serves as a stark reminder of the complex challenges faced by marginalized communities in America. While their situation is unique in its details, it highlights broader issues of poverty, disability, and access to resources that need to be addressed to ensure a more equitable and just society. The ongoing attention to their story can hopefully lead to positive change, both for the Whitaker family and for other vulnerable populations in similar circumstances.