Adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show atypical eye contact and difficulties recognizing faces, making social interactions challenging. Autistic traits also extend into the general population, signifying natural variation. Studies with neurotypical (NT) adults suggest attention to the eyes promotes effective face processing; however there is no evidence linking eye avoidance and face recognition in ASD, a void this research will address. Specific brain wave patterns (event-related potentials, ERPs) mark face perception and are sensitive to eye information. Unique ERPs also mark face recognition. However, face ERPs are understudied in ASD. This research project will evaluate the role of the eye in face processing and the nature of face recognition deficits in adults with ASD and across subclinical autistic traits through the implementation of a multidimensional assessment of face processing. Session 1 will assess: a) attention to the eyes during a live social interaction and during observation of a social video-clip, b) standardized face and object recognition, and c) intelligence. Diagnostic severity will also be measured for adults with ASD. Session 2 will measure ERPs for the perception and memory of faces, facial features, and objects. Self-reported autistic traits will also be collected. We predict adults with ASD will spend less time looking at the eyes and will have weaker behavioural and ERP patterns of face recognition compared to NT adults. Eye avoidance is also expected to be related to poor face recognition. We also predict that higher subclinical autistic traits will relate to weaker attention to the eyes, face perception, and face recognition. This research will elucidate neural markers of face processing in ASD, leading to diagnostic developments, and will inform evidence-based recommendations for rehabilitation and support services for adults with ASD, improving their quality of life and lessening the burden on the Canadian health system.
Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC)
Autism Research Database (AFD)
