VISUAL BEHAVIORS OF NEUROLOGICALLY IMPAIRED CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL VISUAL IMPAIRMENT - AN ETHOLOGICAL STUDY

Backgroundlaims-Visual functions of neurologically impaired children w ith permanent cerebral visual impairment (CVI) can be difficult to det ermine. This study investigated the behavioural profile of CVI childre n by means of ethological observations in order to gain a better under standing of their visual functions. Methods-Video registrations of nin e subjects who were unable to undergo more orthodox methods of visual function testing were observed and analysed by an ethologist. Results- A series of behaviours (direct signs) and supportive or confirming beh avioural elements (indirect signs) indicating some visual perception i n the children were found. Conclusion-Detailed ethological observation s of visual behaviour were shown to be useful for analysing visual fun ctions of children with permanent CVI.