When we think of typical social behavior, eye contact often comes to mind. In many cultures, looking someone in the eye is seen as a sign of attention, honesty, or connection. But for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), eye contact can feel uncomfortable, overwhelming, or even physically painful. In Phnom Penh, where awareness of autism is growing, understanding these differences can help parents, teachers, and caregivers respond with empathy and effective support.
At OrbRom Center, we work closely with families to assess and support children with autism—focusing on communication, behavior, and social development in ways that respect the child’s unique profile, including how they manage eye contact.
Why Eye Contact Is Difficult for Many Children with Autism
Eye contact requires multiple brain functions to work together: recognizing faces, processing social cues, and managing sensory input. For children with autism, these processes can be overwhelming or neurologically challenging.
Some children with ASD:
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Feel sensory overload when looking into someone’s eyes
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Focus better when not looking directly at a face
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Use different communication styles, like watching hands, facial expressions, or focusing on an object instead
Avoiding eye contact isn’t rudeness or defiance—it’s often a self-regulation strategy.
Eye Contact and Diagnosis
Difficulty with eye contact is one of the early signs professionals observe during autism assessments. It is not the only sign, but combined with other behaviors (such as repetitive actions, delayed speech, or limited social interaction), it can contribute to a diagnosis of autism.
At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our team uses comprehensive assessments to evaluate social communication, sensory responses, and play behavior in a child-friendly, non-threatening environment. We never force eye contact—instead, we observe how a child connects in their own way.
Should We Teach Eye Contact?
This is a sensitive topic. Some therapy programs push children to make eye contact, but at OrbRom Center, we follow a neurodiversity-affirming approach. Forcing eye contact can lead to discomfort or anxiety, especially if the child feels unsafe or misunderstood.
Instead, we focus on:
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Functional communication: Does the child understand and respond appropriately—even without eye contact?
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Alternatives to eye contact: Such as looking toward someone’s voice, nodding, using gestures, or responding verbally
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Gradual desensitization (only if appropriate): Helping the child feel comfortable in social situations without pressure
In short: eye contact is not required for meaningful communication.
How Parents and Teachers Can Support Autistic Children
Respect their comfort zone
Don’t insist on eye contact. Instead, focus on whether the child is engaged, listening, or responding in other ways.
Use visuals and gestures
Many autistic children respond better to visual aids, pictures, or gesture-based instructions than verbal cues.
Reinforce social success, not eye contact
Celebrate when the child shares a toy, answers a question, or responds to their name—whether or not eye contact is made.
Seek professional support
If you’re unsure how to interpret your child’s social behavior, a professional developmental assessment can offer clarity and next steps.
Real-Life Example from Phnom Penh
A 6-year-old girl came to OrbRom Center because her teacher noted that she “never looked anyone in the eyes.” The child was bright, creative, and spoke well—but she avoided face-to-face interactions. After a full developmental assessment, she was diagnosed with autism. With a customized intervention plan focused on social communication—not eye contact—she became more confident, used gestures more clearly, and even began to make brief eye contact on her own terms.
This story shows that communication is about connection—not compliance.
Final Thoughts: Rethinking Eye Contact in Autism
Eye contact is just one part of communication—and for autistic children, it may not be the most natural or comfortable one. Parents and teachers in Phnom Penh should understand that avoiding eye contact is not a sign of disconnection or disobedience. It’s a difference in neurological wiring.
At OrbRom Center, we’re proud to offer autism-friendly assessments and interventions that prioritize understanding, not pressure. Let’s shift the focus from “forcing normal” to nurturing connection in ways that make sense for every child.
Explore our developmental assessments and autism support services in Phnom Penh today.
