How Does Visual Processing Impact Someone on the Autism Spectrum?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means that some degree of abnormal brain development occurs very early in life. Currently, approximately 1 in 59 children are diagnosed with ASD. Although there is not a known single cause, genetics likely plays a big role. ASD is a complex condition, and like other brain disorders, can range from mild to severe. The symptoms include:

• Developmental delays, including language and motor coordination
• Deficits in communication and social interactions
• Patterns of behavior that are repetitive, restricted, and fixated
• Learning disabilities
• Sensory integration problems

Because their brains are wired differently, people with ASD often have a more difficult time processing information from their senses and can become easily overwhelmed because of this. Poor eye contact is one of the familiar visual issues people on the spectrum usually have, but did you know there are a number of other ways visual processing is different in ASD? Poor eye contact is one of the familiar visual issues people on the spectrum usually have, but did you know there are a number of other ways visual processing is different in ASD?

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6 Visual Processing Differences in ASD

1. Visual Defensiveness

Though some people with ASD may have low sensitivity to visual stimulation, many are actually hypersensitive to it. This is known as visual defensiveness. In other words, the acuity of their vision can be overwhelming and confusing, so they need to turn away from whatever it is that’s overstimulating to them. It’s as though the brain signals that normally allow us to dampen down stimuli do not work in this same way in ASD. Since this is a developmental disorder and the integration of vision with other senses is impaired, it can affect other areas of development such as cognitive function, motor skills, and speech and language.

2. A Strength in Seeing Details

There are some theories regarding the abnormal visual processing in ASD, but one of the more common ones is known as “weak central coherence.” This basically refers to the preference for those with ASD to focus on details, rather than the big picture. They see the trees, not the forest. If you have a child on the autism spectrum or know someone who is, it’s likely you have observed them with focused attention on singular aspects of toys, games or pictures, rather than engaged with the whole thing. Interestingly, a number of research studies have found that many people with ASD are able to see details more clearly and actually have enhanced non-social perception compared to those not on the spectrum. This of course can be a blessing and a curse. Their perception acuity is also what lets them notice when things are out of place, which can cause them to become upset.

3. Sensitivity to Color

It’s not unusual for those on the autism spectrum to only like certain colors and intentionally try to avoid others. This could even include not wanting to eat foods of a particular color or only play with toys in a favored one.

4. Sensitivity to Light

Children and adults with ASD may have a preference for regular incandescent light (i.e., table lamps) rather than fluorescent light. Some research suggests that those with ASD can actually observe the flickering of fluorescent bulbs—something that’s nearly imperceptible to the rest of us. It’s understandable how this kind of visual overwhelm could be very distressing!

5. Visuo-spatial Processing

This term refers to knowing where we are relative to the space around us. Because of the sensory integration differences in ASD, they can have a harder time with visuo-spatial processing which may account in part for clumsiness or bumping into things. You may notice children or adults on the spectrum doing things that engage some of their other senses. This can be soothing and help them better understand where their body is relative to their surroundings—or other people. Such behaviors may include:

• Hand-flapping
• Staring at a ceiling fan while it spins
• Moving fingers in front of their eyes or peering through their fingers
• Lining up objects
• Flicking lights on and off
• Blinking repetitively

6. Problems with Peripheral Vision

Since most people with ASD are more adept at focusing on objects of interest (called central processing), their peripheral vision may not be as well developed. What many of us think of as “seeing something out of the corner of our eyes,” may actually be frightening to someone with autism. As with all developmental disorders, the sooner autism spectrum disorder is diagnosed and treatment begins, the better outcome. There are many therapies and support tools available to help those with ASD and their families manage symptoms and behaviors. At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. If you would like to learn more about how we can help with Autism Spectrum Disorder, you can speak to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples.