Abstract
Previous theories have attempted to locate the root cause of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in terms of a typical central cognitive processes. However, the field of neuroscience is increasingly finding structural and functional differences between autistic and neuro-typical individuals using neuro-imaging technology which either support or challenge earlier cognitive theories. One main area upon which this research has focused is in visuospatial processing, with specific attention to the notion of “weak central coherence” (WCC), which refers to the tendency of individuals with ASD to be unable to interpret “global” information while hyper-focusing on local information. The current paper offers a brief review of findings from selected studies in order to explore available research that challenges the “deficit” characterization of a WCC theory as opposed to a “superiority” characterization of a strong local coherence.
Highlights
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, as well as by the presence of repetitive behaviors and perseverative areas of interest
One main area this research has focused upon is in visuospatial processing, with specific attention to the notion of “weak central coherence” (WCC)
A foundational cognitive theory used to describe the way in which individuals with ASD process visual information is known as “weak central coherence” (WCC) or the tendency of individuals with ASD to be unable to interpret “global” information while hyper-focusing on local information
Summary
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction (i.e., deficits in social-emotional reciprocity, nonverbal communicative behaviors, and establishing/maintaining social relationships), as well as by the presence of repetitive behaviors and perseverative areas of interest (i.e., stereotyped or repetitive motor movements, use of objects, or speech, rigidity, restricted interests, and hypo or hyperactivity to sensory input or unusual interest in sensory aspects of the environment). Over the past several decades, many theories have been developed in effort to explain the root cause of autism in terms of atypical central cognitive processes. One main area this research has focused upon is in visuospatial processing, with specific attention to the notion of “weak central coherence” (WCC). This paper will offer a brief review of findings from selected studies in order to explore some research that challenges the “deficit” characterization of a weak central coherence theory as opposed to a “superiority” characterization of a strong local coherence, a potential function of neuroplasticity
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