ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses what is known about the neural systems that are associated with gaze-following and related abilities. It presents an overview of our perspective on the nature and importance of gaze-following and joint attention development. The chapter discusses of the functional neuroanatomy of gaze-following, as well as other forms of joint attention. It considers the emergent literature on the neurobiology of gaze-following and Responds to Joint Attention (RJA). Individual differences in the development of gaze-following, RJA, and Initiating Joint Attention skill (IJA) also reflect factors associated with social-emotional and motivation processes. Young children with autism display deficits in both IJA and RJA skills. The details of the posterior system may help to elucidate an understanding of the neurodevelopmental processes involved in the emergence of gaze-following/RJA. Gaze-following and RJA basically involve copying the eye movements and/or head turn of a social partner.
