It seems that this research has implications for treating and mainstreaming of children on the autism spectrum.  I wonder about the effect of the common elementary classroom on behavior as it is almost always decorated with ultra bright colors, covered with objects, maps and such, with literally no empty wall space to be found. I think of the sensory overload it must be causing for the children, even those without a disorder.

The term "low-screener" may be similar to the concept of the neurological threshold which according to Dunn's Model of Sensory Processing (1997) runs on a continuum from low (sensitization) to high (habituation). A very low threshold is equated with hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli, i.e. arousing colors. There are individuals on the autism spectrum however that are at the opposite end of that continuum with a very high threshold thus would be considered hypo-sensitive and often are sensory seeking. The behavioral response of the individual with hyper vs. hypo sensitivity varies as well. For example a child with a low-threshold may respond to bright or arousing colors with  passive vs. active behaviors. The child may seclude him or herself or simply shut down. Either way I suppose the color has produced a stress response. Very interesting stuff here. 

Thank you for responding.

My question is in fact an inquiry into the relationship between two concepts: that of 'screening' and that of 'central coherence'. My reasoning: if there is an overlap this may have implications for the way people on the spectrum perceive color - something about which not much is known.

Since there's apparently no response from the authors forthcoming, I might go back to the literature form which the concept is taken. I suspect - but am not sure - it's quite something else than Winnie Dunn's neurological threshold.

Thanks for the suggestion!