What Is the Impact of Screen Time on the Development of Communication in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Possible Trajectories

The article presents information on children's screen exposure and its relationship to development in typically developing children and children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Research data on the impact of reducing screen time on the development of children with autism, the impact of screen time in children with autism on relationships with adults, and some positive aspects of technology use are reviewed. Possibilities for developmental trajectories in predisposition to certain disorders and possible change in impact on screen time in children with autism and children who exhibit some of the symptoms of autism are presented with suggestions by the authors for directions of impact to achieve improvement in the manifestations of social dysfunctions and use of language as a means of communication.