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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
05:32
Comparing Eye-tracking Data of Children with High-functioning ASD, Comorbid ADHD, and of a Control Watching Social Videos
Published on: December 7, 2018
[Atentional processes and attention deficit disorders in autism]
1Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Nacional de Pediatría Dr. J.P. Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina. vruggieri@intramed.net.ar
Revista De Neurologia
|April 28, 2006
Summary
Attention deficits are common in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), impacting social and language development. Identifying these attention and ADHD comorbidities is crucial for effective autism therapy.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Context:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social interaction and communication deficits, alongside restricted interests and repetitive behaviors.
- Individuals with ASD often exhibit atypical responses to social cues and environmental stimuli, suggesting underlying attention processing difficulties.
- Attention deficits, including issues with alertness, orientation, gaze, sustained attention, and focus shifting, have been frequently hypothesized as contributing factors to ASD.
- High comorbidity rates between attention disorders, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) are well-documented.
Purpose:
- To analyze specific attentional processes implicated in autism.
- To examine the comorbidity of attention deficit disorders (with or without hyperactivity) and pervasive developmental disorders.
- To underscore the importance of identifying these attention deficits for appropriate therapeutic interventions.
Summary:
- This study investigates various attentional deficits reported in autism, including alertness, orientation, gaze, sustained attention, and focus shifting.
- The analysis includes the significant comorbidity between attention deficit disorders (with or without hyperactivity) and pervasive developmental disorders.
- While findings on specific attention disorders in autism remain controversial, their association with other cognitive issues is likely significant.
Impact:
- Understanding attention deficits in ASD is critical for developing targeted interventions.
- The high co-occurrence of ADHD symptoms in individuals with PDD necessitates careful assessment and tailored treatment approaches.
- Acknowledging the link between attention disorders and ASD is essential for optimizing therapeutic strategies and improving outcomes for individuals with autism.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Participant Modeling
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01:30Information Processing Approach
The information-processing theory of cognitive development centers on fundamental mental processes, including attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Researchers in this field examine how cognitive abilities, such as working memory, evolve and influence children's overall development. Studies indicate that children with stronger working memory tend to excel in reading comprehension, math, and problem-solving compared to peers with less efficient memory skills. Low working memory is also...