The Impact of Cerebral Visual Impairment on Social Skills and Sensory Processing

Abstract

Limited evidence exists on the impact of cerebral visual impairment (CVI) on developmental domains in toddlers. This study investigated whether CVI influences social skills and sensory processing in toddlers with cerebral palsy (CP). The study included toddlers with CP, with or without CVI, and typically developing (TD) toddlers. All parents completed the demographic information form. Social skills were assessed by the Brief Infant–Toddler Social and Emotional Assessment (BITSEA). Sensory processing was evaluated by the Infant/Toddler Sensory Profile (ITSP). Analysis of covariance was employed to assess the disparity in BITSEA and ITSP scores. Toddlers with CP and CVI group demonstrated lower social competence than the other groups ( p < .05). Having CVI did not cause a statistically significant difference in sensory processing among toddlers with CP ( p > .05). CVI significantly affects social competence in toddlers with CP but does not affect sensory processing.