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Behavioural characteristics of children with permanent cortical visual impairment
J E Jan1, M Groenveld, A M Sykanda
1Division of Child Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver.
Insights
Children with permanent cortical visual impairment (CVI) exhibit specific behaviors, including inconsistent vision, preference for familiar settings, and stronger color identification than form perception. Many children struggle with spatial visual processing.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Cortical visual impairment (CVI) is a leading cause of childhood visual impairment.
- Understanding the behavioral characteristics associated with CVI is crucial for effective intervention.
- Previous research has identified some features, but a comprehensive description of common behaviors is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the common behavioral features observed in a cohort of children with permanent CVI.
- To identify patterns in visual performance and environmental influences on vision in children with CVI.
Main Methods:
- Behavioral observation and assessment of 50 children diagnosed with permanent CVI.
- Detailed recording of visual performance, environmental interactions, and compensatory strategies.
Main Results:
- Children with CVI display variable and inconsistent visual performance, despite often having residual vision.
- Visual function improves in familiar environments and with directed attention.
- Stronger color identification compared to form perception and difficulties with spatial visual processing were noted.
- Head turning during reaching and reliance on tactile input for object identification are common.
- Nystagmus and visual self-stimulation are rare.
Conclusions:
- Permanent CVI is characterized by a distinct set of behavioral features impacting visual perception and interaction.
- Environmental familiarity and cognitive understanding significantly influence visual performance in these children.
- Difficulties in spatial processing and reliance on non-visual cues highlight the complex nature of CVI.
Abstract:
The common behavioral features of 50 children with permanent cortical visual impairment (CVI) are described. CVI is frequently associated with specific behavioural characteristics. The majority of these children have residual vision, but they all have variable and inconsistent visual performance, including visual acuity. They see better in familiar environments and when they understand what to look for and where to look for it. They often use touch to identify objects. Their ability to identify colours is much stronger than their perception of form. Many turn their heads to the side when they are reaching. Nystagmus and visual self-stimulation are exceptionally rare. They appear to have great difficulty with the cognitive evaluation of visual perception in spatial terms. Head elevation is worst in those with least vision, and without head elevation the possibility of visual stimulation is further restricted.