Date : 21Dec2024 Blog Posted

VIRTUAL AUTISM A NEW ERA CONCERN FOR PARENTS

In this digital age , Virtual Autism has become a growing concern for children

Now a days technology has been integral part of our lives which makes to important to understand its impact of child developments.

VIRTUAL Autism: refers to the negative impact created by excessive screen time on virtual interaction of children leading to symptoms similar to autism.

There are no specific diagnostic criteria to diagnose digital autism and is not yet been a diagnostic entity yet as it is still under research about the causative factors and discussions are still on about the symptomatic similarities with autism because

As it has impact on healthy development of child , it’s essential for parents and caregivers to understand about this.

What can cause virtual autism?

• a) Excessive screen time including use of smart phones , tablets , computers and television
• b) Insufficient opportunity for children to engage in face to face interactions with parents and caregivers which in turn might hinder social skills
• c) Reduced physical play and outdoor activity with increased digital play
• d) Excessive parental use of electronic gadgets infront of children

What can be the symptom of virtual Autism?

• a) Excessive level of activity and restless
• b) Lack of eye contact during conversation
• C) inability to establish to and fro conversation
• d) frequent irritability
• e) Imparied speech and language
• f) difficulty to focus
• g) Inability to have social interactions

Extensive screen time may lead to negative outcomes for children. They can be as follows:

• 1. Impaired Social Skills: Excessive screen time limits crucial face-to-face social interactions for skill development.
• 2. Language and Communication Delays: Extended screen exposure may cause language and communication delays.
• 3. Reduced Physical Activity: Prolonged screen use leads to a sedentary lifestyle linked to health issues, including obesity.
• 4. Sleep Problems: Screens before bedtime disrupt sleep patterns, leading to sleep issues.
• 5. Attention Difficulties: Some studies suggest excessive screen time may cause attention difficulties.
• 6. Emotional and Behavioral Issues: Prolonged exposure to certain screen content, like violence, can negatively affect children emotionally and behaviorally.

How to treat Virtual Autism?

• a) Consult a professional preferably a child psychiatrist for assessment, diagnosis and treatment of child in a holistic way . Early diagnosis helps the child from progression and complications secondary to it.
• b)Encourage Social interactions with peers , family and caregivers.
• c)Establish Screen time limits :Set age appropriate guidelines for screen time encourage alternate activities like physical Play/ outdoor play , reading and creative play.
• d)Provide nurturing environment.