What are the neural mechanisms underlying reduced eye contact and social interaction difficulties in ASD during live social interactions?

Abstract

At its core, reduced eye contact fundamentally originates from sluggishness in brain activity. In fact, a study conducted in 2022 discovered that during eye contact with individuals who have ASD , the dorsal parietal cortex of the brain is extremely less active than in neurotypical individuals . This is important not only to identify individuals with ASD but also to contribute to poor social relationships, leading to resultant outcomes such as discrimination and isolation from social events. Therefore, this paper will focus on making an in-depth inquiry on the current knowledge and methodology used in studying the neural mechanisms that underlie atypical eye contact. We will examine current research papers and literature on the neural bases of processing eye gaze while highlighting some of the limitations of traditional neuroimaging approaches. Therefore, we will outline the potential solutions to combating these kinds of symptoms, such as Applied Behavior Analysis(ABA) or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) and improving social functioning for individuals with ASD.