Abstract
Eye-tracking studies have shown potential in effectively discriminating between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and non-ASD groups. The main objective of the present study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of eye-tracking studies in adults with ASD. A total of 22 studies were included for meta-analysis. Eyes and Non-Social regions proved better for discriminating between ASD and non-ASD adults, while fixation duration seems to be the outcome to choose. Active engaged tasks seem to reduce differences between ASD and non-ASD adults, regardless of the emotional content of the stimuli/task. Proportional fixation duration on eyes and non-social areas in non-active tasks (e.g. free viewing) seems to be the best eye-tracking design for increasing the sensitivity and specificity in ASD adults.
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An Excel spreadsheet with meta-analysis raw data is available for researchers to replicate the statistical analyses reported here.
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ISR and JLM conceived of the study, participated in its design and coordination and drafted the manuscript; LGG participated in the design and interpretation of the data, and helped draft the manuscript; EDV participated in the interpretation of the data, performed the statistical analysis and helped draft the manuscript; MMM and RCB participated in the design and interpretation of the data, and helped draft the manuscript. JARQ helped draft the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
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Setien-Ramos, I., Lugo-Marín, J., Gisbert-Gustemps, L. et al. Eye-Tracking Studies in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 53, 2430–2443 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-022-05524-z
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