Absence crises produce a lack of reactivity and responsiveness, inability to react.

The patient remains immobile and with a fixed gaze. It usually lasts between ten and fifteen seconds and recovery is instantaneous. They often go unnoticed and are mistaken for absent-mindedness or school difficulties.

They are usually more frequent in the morning or early afternoon. Sometimes, they are repeated many times a day, giving the appearance of a clumsy or distracted person.

They are more frequent in children and adolescents.