Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 18, 2026

Comparing Eye-tracking Data of Children with High-functioning ASD, Comorbid ADHD, and of a Control Watching Social Videos
Published on: December 7, 2018
Detail and gestalt focus in individuals with optimal outcomes from autism spectrum disorders
Allison Fitch1, Deborah A Fein, Inge-Marie Eigsti
1Department of Psychology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Connecticut, 406 Babbidge Road, U-1020, Storrs, CT, 06269-1020, USA.
Abstract:
Individuals with high-functioning autism (HFA) have a cognitive style that privileges local over global or gestalt details. While not a core symptom of autism, individuals with HFA seem to reliably show this bias. Our lab has been studying a sample of children who have overcome their early ASD diagnoses, showing "optimal outcomes" (OO). This study characterizes performance by OO, HFA, and typically developing (TD) adolescents as they describe paintings under cognitive load. Analyses of detail focus in painting descriptions indicated that the HFA group displayed significantly more local focus than both OO and TD groups, while the OO and TD groups did not differ. We discuss implications for the centrality of detail focus to the autism diagnosis.
Related Concept Videos
Autism Spectrum Disorder
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.
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in...
Gestalt Psychology
Gestalt Principles of Perception
Adler's Individual Psychology
Learning Disabilities
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...

