Factors Explaining Individual Differences in Developmental Trajectories of Children with Visual Impairment: Scoping Review

Several studies have shown great variability in developmental trajectories in children with visual impairment when compared with sighted children. This article reviews 54 international studies, published between 1956 and 2022, examining the factors of developmental variability in children with visual impairment. Three major endogenous factors explain the particularities of the developmental trajectories: degree of visual impairment, associated disabilities and neurological disorders. Three other exogenous factors have been identified (quality of social interaction, family attitudes, early intervention) but remain in the minority in scientific studies. After a discussion of methodological considerations, we discuss new directions for research to provide additional and strong evidence for the debate regarding the role of endogenous and exogenous factors in the development of visually impaired children.