Gaze-Contingent Display Changes as New Window on Analytical and Holistic Face Perception in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Abstract

The strength of holistic face perception in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was evaluated by applying the gaze-contingent mask and window technique to a face matching and discrimination task in 6- to 14-year-old children with (n = 36) and without ASD (n = 47), and by examining fixation patterns. Behavioral results suggested a slower and less efficient face processing in the ASD sample compared with the matched control group. Comparing the moving mask and window conditions revealed a reduced holistic face processing bias in the younger age group but not in the older sample. Preferential viewing patterns revealed both similarities and differences between both participant groups.