though effects were also observed with happy , angry and neutral faces .
The findings of the study support the hypothesis of an excitatory / inhibitory imbalance in autism ( excitatory refers to neurotransmitters that stimulate the brain while inhibitory refers to those that calm it and provide equilibrium ). Such an imbalance , likely the result of diverse genetic and / perinatal causes , can serve to strengthen excitatory
synapses in the subcortical circuitry involved in face perception . This in turn can result in an abnormal reaction to eye contact , an aversive response to direct gaze , and consequently abnormal development of the social brain .
In elucidating the underlying reasons for eye-contact avoidance , the study also suggests more effective means of engaging individuals with autism . “ The findings indicate that forcing children with autism to look into the eyes in behavioral therapy may create a lot of anxiety for them ,” Hadjikhani says , “ and that one should consider an approach in which a slow habituation to eyecontact may help them overcome this over-reaction . This could allow them to be able to handle eye contact in the long run , thereby avoiding the cascading effects that this eyeavoidance has on the development of the social brain .”
“ The findings demonstrate that the apparent lack of interpersonal interest in autism is not , contrary to what has been thought , due to a lack of concern .”
The researchers are already planning to follow up the research . Hadjikhani is now seeking funding for a study that will use magnetoencephalography ( MEG ) together with eye-tracking and other behavioral tests to probe more deeply the relationship between the subcortical system and difficulty with making eye contact in autism .
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