Orientation discrimination in Autism
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An investigation into whether orientation discrimination is superior in those with ASD, and whether peak gamma frequency is correlated with this enhanced performance.
IRAS ID
139696
Contact name
Abigail Dickinson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Univeristy of Sheffield
Research summary
This study is an investigation into whether the perceptual skills of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) differ from those of individuals without ASD. We are particularly interested in vision, and whether individuals with ASD see the world differently to people without ASD.
Using research to gain a better understanding of the perceptual differences in ASD is important, as it will lead to greater understanding of the condition. Also, by identifying the particular strengths shown by individuals with ASD, such as paying attention to fine detail, we can help those with ASD understand why they might experience things differently, and how they can focus these skills and use them to their advantage.
To investigate this we will measure orientation discrimination thresholds in those with ASD using a simple visual task presented on a computer. This task involves making judgements about whether black and white lines have rotated clockwise or anti-clockwise. By decreasing the angle of rotation between these two sets of lines, we can measure an individuals threshold. We can then compare orientation discrimination thresholds between those with ASD, and those without.
A particular type of neural activity, gamma band activity, has previously been found to be correlated with orientation discrimination thresholds in neurotypical individuals. This study will use electroencephalography (EEG) to measure gamma band activity in order to ascertain whether any differences in orientation discrimination threshold in ASD also have corresponding differences in neural activity. All research will be undertaken within the department of Psychology at the University of Sheffield.
This study will allow is to see whether low level sensory processing in ASD is atypical. Measuring neural activity through EEG may also reveal any neural mechanisms that may underlie atypical sensory processing.REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/YH/0042
Date of REC Opinion
10 Apr 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion