Face processing and eye tracking skills in children with autism spectrum disorders

Abstract

In this study, face processing, eye tracking and joint attention skills of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and virtual reality studies have been reveiwed. Current literatüre shows that face processing, eye tracking and joint attention skills and strategies of individuals with ASD are different than the strategies used by typically developing individuals. Difficulties in these areas have been considered to be related to the face discrimination strategies used by the individuals with ASD for face feature detections. Recently, virtual reality studies pioneer the development of intervention programs targeting enhancing social functioning and social cognitive skills of individuals with ASD. Even though the review of the studies indicates that face processing problems of individuals with ASD negatively affect these individuals' social skills, non-verbal interactions and cognitive skills, these studies will lead to a better understanding of ASD and provide guidance for the development of effective interventions.