| Fragile X syndrome (FXS), an X chromosome linked genetic disorder, is the most common form of inherited mental retardation. Along with some physical symptoms, individuals with FXS suffer from cognitive delays and social anxiety. The current study examines both eye gaze and eye shifting behavior of very young children with FXS compared to very young children without the mutation. Using eye-tracking technology, the children viewed visual social stimuli. These visual social attention paradigms were designed to gain a better understanding of how very young children with FXS view social interactions. Compared to typically developing children, children with FXS show less gaze duration on the face region of the characters. These results may suggest that the social deficits seen later in individuals with FXS (i.e. gaze aversion, difficulty maintaining conversation) may begin during the first few years of life. These results many have implications for development of social communication skills and early intervention. |
