Researchers at Uppsala University are exploring the use of eye movement analysis as a tool to aid in the diagnosis of psychiatric conditions like autism and ADHD. A pilot study has shown promising results, suggesting that this method could offer a more objective measure compared to traditional questionnaires.
The study involved 178 participants over 18 years old, who watched various film sequences while their eye movements were tracked. The analysis revealed distinct patterns in eye movements associated with different diagnoses. For autism, the accuracy rate was around 90 percent, and for ADHD, it was 83 percent.
This innovative approach could potentially assist in making diagnostic decisions, especially for adults who do not have clear symptoms. The researchers hope this tool can help clinicians differentiate between those who need a diagnosis and those who do not.
The study suggests that individuals with autism and ADHD exhibit more varied eye movements, possibly due to dysregulation in the autonomic nervous system. This research could become a valuable tool in the future, providing a more objective and accessible method for diagnosing these conditions.