Absence seizures are a type of seizure that primarily affects children. During an absence seizure, a person may briefly lose awareness of their surroundings, often staring blankly for a few seconds. These episodes can occur multiple times a day and may go unnoticed by others. The exact cause of absence seizures is not fully understood, but they are believed to involve abnormal electrical activity in the brain. They are classified as a form of epilepsy, and while they are generally not harmful, they can interfere with daily activities and learning if left untreated.