Although research is limited in this domain, deficits in visual-spatial perception and construction have been reported in children with histories of prenatal alcohol exposure. As previously discussed, prenatal exposure to alcohol has been found to be associated with abnormal development of hippocampal structure and functioning (e.g., Autti-Rämö, et al., 2002; Barnes & Walker, 1981; Berman & Hannigan, 2000; Riikonen, Salonen, Partanen, & Verho, 1999). Given that behavioral research with animals has shown that visual-spatial abilities depend on medial temporal lobe and hippocampal functioning (e.g., Morris, Garrud, Rawlins, & O'Keefe, 1982; O'Keefe & Dostrovsky, 1971), it is reasonable to expect visual-spatial abilities to be compromised in prenatally exposed individuals.
