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Turan S, Çıray RO, Tunçtürk M, Halac E, Bilgic B, Ağaç N, Ermiş Ç. Social Information Processing and Executive Functions in Male Children and Adolescents with Internet Gaming Disorder. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2024; 55:1063-1072. [PMID: 36441375 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-022-01468-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, in addition to its clinical importance, interest in the social-cognitive aspect of internet gaming disorder (IGD) has increased. This study aimed to investigate autistic traits, executive functions, and self-regulation abilities of patients with IGD. Eighty-seven male patients with IGD and eighty-three male healthy controls (HC) were included in the study. All patients were diagnosed with IGD as per the diagnostic criteria of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5. Healthy controls without any comorbid psychiatric diagnosis were recruited from the community. The Brief Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) and the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) were implemented to evaluate autistic traits, executive functions, and self-regulation skills. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Screen for Child Anxiety and Related Disorders and Internet Gaming Disorder Scale-Short-Form were used to evaluate psychopathology. The effect size of the impairments in executive functions and self-regulation skills was large (Cohen's d = 1.0-2.0). IGD groups had higher levels of autistic traits compared to healthy controls (d = 1.0-1.4). The differences in BDI and BRIEF scores remained significant in logistic regression analysis. Age at illness-onset, total severity of anxiety, and autistic traits were found as significant correlates of deficits in executive functions among patients with IGD. The results of this study supported the higher autistic traits and poorer executive function skills of patients with IGD. Deficits in executive functions were associated with autistic traits and younger age-onset of the illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serkan Turan
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Bursa Uludag University Medical School, Bursa, Turkey.
| | | | - Mustafa Tunçtürk
- Neurology and Neurosurgery, Mazhar Osman Research and Training Hospital for Psychiatry, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Eren Halac
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dokuz Eylul University Medical School, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Nilay Ağaç
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dokuz Eylul University Medical School, Izmir, Turkey
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2
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Charnock T, Drummond A, Hall LC, Sauer JD. The associations between autistic characteristics and microtransaction spending. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14068. [PMID: 38890438 PMCID: PMC11189550 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64812-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Microtransactions provide optional, virtual, video game goods that, for an additional cost to the player, provide additional game content and alter the gameplay experience. Loot boxes-a specific form of microtransaction-offer randomised rewards in exchange for payment, and are argued to be structurally and psychologically similar to gambling. Nascent research suggests that a link exists between autism and both problematic gaming and problematic gambling. Here, we investigated the relationships between autistic characteristics and experiences, and excessive video gaming and microtransaction expenditure. A sample of 1178 adults from Australia, Aotearoa, and The United States were recruited from Prolific Academic, and completed a survey measuring in-game expenditure, autistic characteristics and experiences, problematic gaming, problematic gambling, and risky loot box use. Analyses showed positive associations between autistic characteristics and experiences with problematic gaming and problem gambling symptomatology. However, results also showed a small, negative association between autistic characteristics and experiences and spending on loot boxes when problem gambling symptoms, problematic gaming, and risky loot box use were statistically controlled for. These results suggest that autistic gamers may be vulnerable to problematic gaming and gambling, but that this effect does not extend to the purchasing of microtransactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tegan Charnock
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia
| | - Aaron Drummond
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Lauren C Hall
- Australian Institute of Health Service Management, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - James D Sauer
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia.
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia.
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Simonelli V, Narzisi A, Sesso G, Salvati A, Milone A, Viglione V, Tolomei G, Masi G, Berloffa S. Internet Gaming Disorder in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Brain Sci 2024; 14:154. [PMID: 38391728 PMCID: PMC10887068 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14020154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been related to an increased risk for behavioral addictions including online gaming. However, the relationship between these two conditions and Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is still debated. The aim of this study is to address this topic by exploring the prevalence of IGD in a consecutive sample of ASD youth and ADHD youth, compared with a normal control group, and by assessing selected psychopathological and neuropsychological features in ASD and ADHD patients with and without IGD. This study included 77 ASD patients (67 males, mean age 13.58 ± 2.75 years), 94 ADHD patients (79 males, mean age 11.46 ± 2.47 years), and 147 normal controls (NC) (mean age 13.9 ± 3.0 years, 114 males) that received structured measures for IGD (IAT, IGDS9-SF, and UADI). In the ADHD group, 72.34% of the sample were above the IGD cut-off, compared with 45.45% in the ASD group and 9.5% in the NC group. ASD patients with IGD presented with greater severity and more severe attention problems, with no difference in the ASD core symptoms between patients with and without IGD. In the comparison between the ASD and ADHD groups according to the presence of IGD, ASD patients with IGD were the most severe group according to the CGI (Clinical Global Impression) scale. The follow-up, conducted on 45 patients affected by ASD, showed an improvement in CGI and CGAS (Children's Global Assessment Scale) scores, but not in the IGD symptoms. These findings could place the diagnosis of ASD as a negative prognostic factor in the follow-up of aspects of video game addiction compared with ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Simonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56128 Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonio Narzisi
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Viale del Tirreno, 331A, Calambrone, 56025 Pisa, Italy
| | - Gianluca Sesso
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Viale del Tirreno, 331A, Calambrone, 56025 Pisa, Italy
- Social and Affective Neuroscience Group, Molecular Mind Lab, IMT School for Advanced Studies Lucca, 55100 Lucca, Italy
| | - Andrea Salvati
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, A. Meyer Children's Hospital, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Annarita Milone
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Viale del Tirreno, 331A, Calambrone, 56025 Pisa, Italy
| | - Valentina Viglione
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Viale del Tirreno, 331A, Calambrone, 56025 Pisa, Italy
| | - Greta Tolomei
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Viale del Tirreno, 331A, Calambrone, 56025 Pisa, Italy
| | - Gabriele Masi
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Viale del Tirreno, 331A, Calambrone, 56025 Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Berloffa
- IRCCS Stella Maris, Scientific Institute of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, Viale del Tirreno, 331A, Calambrone, 56025 Pisa, Italy
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Farkas K, Pesthy O, Janacsek K, Németh D. Interpersonal Distance Theory of Autism and Its Implication for Cognitive Assessment, Therapy, and Daily Life. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2024; 19:126-136. [PMID: 37401721 DOI: 10.1177/17456916231180593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
The interpersonal distance (IPD) theory provides a novel approach to studying autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this article, we present recent findings on the neurobiological underpinnings of IPD regulation that are distinct in individuals with ASD. We also discuss the potential influence of environmental factors on IPD. We suggest that different IPD regulation may have implications for cognitive performance in experimental and diagnostic settings, may influence the effectiveness of training and therapy, and may play a role in the typical forms of social communication and leisure activities chosen by autistic individuals. We argue that reconsidering the results of ASD research through the lens of IPD would lead to a different interpretation of previous findings. Finally, we propose a methodological approach to study this phenomenon systematically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kinga Farkas
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Semmelweis University
- BML-NAP Research Group, Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University & Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Orsolya Pesthy
- BML-NAP Research Group, Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University & Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University
| | - Karolina Janacsek
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University
- Centre for Thinking and Learning, Institute for Lifecourse Development, School of Human Sciences, Faculty of Education, Health and Human Sciences, University of Greenwich
| | - Dezső Németh
- BML-NAP Research Group, Institute of Psychology, Eötvös Loránd University & Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience and Psychology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- Centre de Recherche en Neurosciences de Lyon (CRNL) U1028 UMR5292, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Bron, France
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Ophir Y, Rosenberg H, Tikochinski R, Dalyot S, Lipshits-Braziler Y. Screen Time and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2346775. [PMID: 38064216 PMCID: PMC10709772 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.46775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Contemporary studies raise concerns regarding the implications of excessive screen time on the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the existing literature consists of mixed and unquantified findings. Objective To conduct a systematic review and meta-analyis of the association between screen time and ASD. Data Sources A search was conducted in the PubMed, PsycNET, and ProQuest Dissertation & Theses Global databases for studies published up to May 1, 2023. Study Selection The search was conducted independently by 2 authors. Included studies comprised empirical, peer-reviewed articles or dissertations published in English with statistics from which relevant effect sizes could be calculated. Discrepancies were resolved by consensus. Data Extraction and Synthesis This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline. Two authors independently coded all titles and abstracts, reviewed full-text articles against the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and resolved all discrepancies by consensus. Effect sizes were transformed into log odds ratios (ORs) and analyzed using a random-effects meta-analysis and mixed-effects meta-regression. Study quality was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. Publication bias was tested via the Egger z test for funnel plot asymmetry. Data analysis was performed in June 2023. Main Outcomes and Measures The 2 main variables of interest in this study were screen time and ASD. Screen time was defined as hours of screen use per day or per week, and ASD was defined as an ASD clinical diagnosis (yes or no) or ASD symptoms. The meta-regression considered screen type (ie, general use of screens, television, video games, computers, smartphones, and social media), age group (children vs adults or heterogenous age groups), and type of ASD measure (clinical diagnosis vs ASD symptoms). Results Of the 4682 records identified, 46 studies with a total of 562 131 participants met the inclusion criteria. The studies were observational (5 were longitudinal and 41 were cross-sectional) and included 66 relevant effect sizes. The meta-analysis resulted in a positive summary effect size (log OR, 0.54 [95% CI, 0.34 to 0.74]). A trim-and-fill correction for a significant publication bias (Egger z = 2.15; P = .03) resulted in a substantially decreased and nonsignificant effect size (log OR, 0.22 [95% CI, -0.004 to 0.44]). The meta-regression results suggested that the positive summary effect size was only significant in studies targeting general screen use (β [SE] = 0.73 [0.34]; t58 = 2.10; P = .03). This effect size was most dominant in studies of children (log OR, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.66 to 1.29]). Interestingly, a negative summary effect size was observed in studies investigating associations between social media and ASD (log OR, -1.24 [95% CI, -1.51 to -0.96]). Conclusions and Relevance The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that the proclaimed association between screen use and ASD is not sufficiently supported in the existing literature. Although excessive screen use may pose developmental risks, the mixed findings, the small effect sizes (especially when considering the observed publication bias), and the correlational nature of the available research require further scientific investigation. These findings also do not rule out the complementary hypothesis that children with ASD may prioritize screen activities to avoid social challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaakov Ophir
- Department of Education, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- Centre for Human Inspired Artificial Intelligence, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Refael Tikochinski
- Faculty of Data and Decision Sciences, Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Shani Dalyot
- Communications Department, Sapir Academic College, Hof Ashkelon, Israel
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Dell'Osso L, Amatori G, Muti D, Giovannoni F, Parri F, Violi M, Cremone IM, Carpita B. Autism Spectrum, Hikikomori Syndrome and Internet Gaming Disorder: Is There a Link? Brain Sci 2023; 13:1116. [PMID: 37509046 PMCID: PMC10377367 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13071116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to review the available literature investigating the relationship between hikikomori, a pathological condition characterized by severe social withdrawal or isolation, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Internet gaming disorder (IGD). Studies on the relationship between ASD and IGD have found significant positive correlations between these two conditions. Individuals with ASD would appear to be at risk of developing a problematic use of the Internet, which, to the right extent, would represent a useful tool for social interaction and cognitive development. Even subjects with hikikomori, in whom rarefied interpersonal relationships and social isolation could be balanced by the use of online connections, appear to be at high risk of developing IGD. On the other hand, the finding of significant autistic traits in populations with hikikomori could lead to considering this psychopathological condition as a particular presentation of autism spectrum, a hypothesis that requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Amatori
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Dario Muti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Federico Giovannoni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Parri
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Miriam Violi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ivan Mirko Cremone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Barbara Carpita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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Kawabe K, Horiuchi F, Hosokawa R, Nakachi K, Soga J, Ueno SI. Comorbid symptoms of internet addiction among adolescents with and without autism spectrum disorder: a comparative study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADOLESCENCE AND YOUTH 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/02673843.2022.2091939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Kawabe
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, and Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development, Ehime University Hospital, Toon, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Fumie Horiuchi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, and Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development, Ehime University Hospital, Toon, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Rie Hosokawa
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, and Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development, Ehime University Hospital, Toon, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Kiwamu Nakachi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, and Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development, Ehime University Hospital, Toon, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Junya Soga
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, and Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development, Ehime University Hospital, Toon, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Shu-Ichi Ueno
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
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9
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Influence of an Esports Program on Problematic Gaming in Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder: A Pilot Study. Behav Sci (Basel) 2022; 12:bs12060172. [PMID: 35735382 PMCID: PMC9220122 DOI: 10.3390/bs12060172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Esports (electronic sports) programs are a variant of competitive gaming and have expanded worldwide in recent years. The prevalence of problematic gaming and gaming disorders (GD) is predicted to increase in adolescents. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a high rate of digital gaming use, and their characteristics, such as social communication deficits and restricted interests, might contribute to problematic gaming. In this study, we aimed to examine whether participation in an Esports program would lead to problematic gaming or GD in children with ASD. The Internet Gaming Disorder Test (IGD-20) scores, Kid-KINDL scores, and gaming time at home were assessed in eight children with ASD before beginning the Esports program and at the three-month follow-up timepoint. The program was held once a week at the welfare service center, where the participants played a set game for 60 min. The results indicated there was no significant worsening in any of the scores after the program. Our program provided the participation time and frequency of Esports, type of game, and motivation of the participants are adequately considered. Even though this pilot study is limited by the small sample size, we concluded that the risk of these activities leading to problematic gaming might be low.
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Estabillo JA, Moody CT, Poulhazan SJ, Adery LH, Denluck EM, Laugeson EA. Efficacy of PEERS® for Adolescents via Telehealth Delivery. J Autism Dev Disord 2022; 52:5232-5242. [PMID: 35624224 PMCID: PMC9137447 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-022-05580-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PEERS® for Adolescents is an evidence-based social skills intervention for autistic youth and adolescents with other social challenges. The efficacy and effectiveness of PEERS® are well established; however, limited data on PEERS® via telehealth delivery exist. The current study aimed to examine the efficacy of PEERS® for Adolescents via telehealth and compare outcomes between telehealth and in-person modalities. Thirty-one adolescents (Mage = 13.77, SD = 2.14) participated in telehealth groups, and outcomes were compared with 212 adolescents (Mage = 14.02, SD = 2.00) from in-person groups. Findings demonstrate PEERS® for Adolescents via telehealth results in significant improvements in social skills knowledge, social responsiveness, overall social skills and problem behaviors, and social engagement. Telehealth outcomes are relatively equivalent to in-person delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasper A Estabillo
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-6967, USA. .,Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Christine T Moody
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-6967, USA
| | - Solene J Poulhazan
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-6967, USA
| | - Laura H Adery
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-6967, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Denluck
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-6967, USA.,College of Education School Psychology Program, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Laugeson
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, 300 UCLA Medical Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-6967, USA
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Yang N, Hurd PL, Crespi BJ. Why iPlay: The Relationships of Autistic and Schizotypal Traits With Patterns of Video Game Use. Front Psychol 2022; 13:767446. [PMID: 35282248 PMCID: PMC8905237 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.767446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Video games are popular and ubiquitous aspects of human culture, but their relationships to psychological and neurophysiological traits have yet to be analyzed in social-evolutionary frameworks. We examined the relationships of video game usage, motivations, and preferences with autistic and schizotypal traits and two aspects of neurophysiology, reaction time and targeting time. Participants completed the Autism Quotient, Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire, a Video Game Usage Questionnaire, and two neurophysiological tasks. We tested in particular the hypotheses, motivated by theory and previous work, that: (1) participants with higher autism scores would play video games more, and participants with higher schizotypy scores would play video games less; and (2) autism and positive schizotypy would be associated with opposite patterns of video game use, preferences and motivations. Females, but not males, with higher autism scores played more video games, and exhibited evidence of relatively male-typical video game genre preferences and motivations. By contrast, positive schizotypy was associated with reduced video game use in both genders, for several measures of game use frequency. In line with previous findings, males played video game more than females did overall, preferred action video games, and exhibited faster reaction and targeting times. Females preferred Puzzle and Social Simulation games. Faster reaction and targeting times were associated with gaming motives related to skill development and building behavior. These findings show that gaming use and patterns reflect aspects of psychology, and gender, related to social cognition and imagination, as well as aspects of neurophysiology. More generally, the results suggest that video game use is notably affected by levels of autistic and schizotypal traits, and that video games may provide an evolutionarily novel medium for imaginative play in which immersive play experiences can be decoupled from social interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Yang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Pete L. Hurd
- Department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Bernard J. Crespi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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12
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Tateno M, Matsuzaki T, Takano A, Higuchi S. Increasing important roles of child and adolescent psychiatrists in the treatment of gaming disorder: Current status in Japan. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:995665. [PMID: 36339875 PMCID: PMC9627206 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.995665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital gaming is the most common leisure activity among children and adolescents in Japan, especially in males. Playing online gaming has become more common among school-age children over the years. As a result, excessive online gaming in younger children has become a significant social problem in Japan. Previous studies have demonstrated that excessive online gaming could cause various mental health issues in children and adolescents. At medical institutions having child and adolescent psychiatry services, there is an increasing number of children and adolescents with various problems related to excessive gaming. The aim of this study was to investigate the current practice of gaming disorder (GD) in clinical settings in Japan. METHODS The subjects of this study were all of 414 child and adolescent psychiatrists certified by the Japanese Society for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (JSCAP). The study questionnaire was mailed to all subjects from the official secretariat of JSCAP. Study subjects were requested to answer the questionnaire anonymously. The survey contained three types of responses: open responses; single and multiple-choice responses; and, responses on a five-point Likert scale. The questionnaire consisted of 14 questions regarding GD. RESULTS We received 159 responses. The most common reason for a visit to child and adolescent psychiatry service which results in a subsequent diagnosis of GD was school refusal/absenteeism followed by disruption of sleep-awake rhythm. The most common specialized treatment for GD currently offered at child and adolescent psychiatry service is individual psychotherapy. The two most frequently experienced difficulties in the treatment of GD were low motivation to achieve recovery and a large variety of combined problems other than excessive gaming itself. With regard to the three most common psychiatric comorbidities of GD, they were autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depression. DISCUSSION The results of our survey revealed that although GD is a behavioral addiction, many children and adolescents with GD first visit child and adolescent psychiatry clinics rather than specialized clinics for addiction which are usually designed and staffed for adult patients. Because it is known that GD is more prevalent among young males, including junior high and high school students, GD has become one of the most important clinical issues in child and adolescent psychiatry today. The important roles of child and adolescent psychiatrists in the treatment of GD has been increasing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaru Tateno
- Tokiwa Child Development Center, Tokiwa Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takanobu Matsuzaki
- Department of Psychiatry, National Hospital Organization Kurihama Medical and Addiction Center, Yokosuka, Japan
| | - Ayumi Takano
- Department of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Susumu Higuchi
- Department of Psychiatry, National Hospital Organization Kurihama Medical and Addiction Center, Yokosuka, Japan
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Berard M, Peries M, Loubersac J, Picot MC, Bernard JY, Munir K, Baghdadli A. Screen time and associated risks in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders during a discrete COVID-19 lockdown period. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1026191. [PMID: 36532191 PMCID: PMC9751585 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1026191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic may affect the screen time of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). This study aimed to examine the screen time of children and adolescents with ASD during a discrete lockdown period in France and identify risk factors for excessive screen time. METHODS The study sample consisted of 249 ASD subjects, 3-17 years of age, enrolled in the ELENA cohort. Information about the screen time was collected using the COVID-19 questionnaire specially created for this study. The clinical, socio-demographic and familial characteristics were collected from the last ELENA follow-up visit. RESULTS More than one third of subjects exceeded recommended levels of screen time and almost half of parents reported that their child spent more time using screen since COVID-19 pandemic beginning. Excessive screen time was significantly related to age with higher screen time in adolescents. Risk factors for excessive screen time were high withdrawn behaviors and low socioeconomic status for children, and older age and male gender for adolescents. CONCLUSION These results imply to adapt the recommendations already formulated in general population concerning the good use of screens in youth with ASD. Specific recommendations and suitable guidance are needed to help children and adolescents with ASD and their parents implement the more optimal use of screen time activities for educational, therapeutic and social goals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02625116.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Berard
- Centre de Ressource Autisme Languedoc-Roussillon, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Centre d'Excellence sur l'Autisme et les Troubles Neuro-développementaux, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Marianne Peries
- Centre de Ressource Autisme Languedoc-Roussillon, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Centre d'Excellence sur l'Autisme et les Troubles Neuro-développementaux, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, France
| | - Julie Loubersac
- Centre de Ressource Autisme Languedoc-Roussillon, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Centre d'Excellence sur l'Autisme et les Troubles Neuro-développementaux, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, France
| | - Marie-Christine Picot
- Centre d'Excellence sur l'Autisme et les Troubles Neuro-développementaux, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, France.,Clinical Research and Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medical Information, University Hospital, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Jonathan Y Bernard
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, INRAE, Centre de Recherche en Épidémiologie et Statistiques, Paris, France.,Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences (SICS), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kerim Munir
- Developmental Medicine Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Amaria Baghdadli
- Centre de Ressource Autisme Languedoc-Roussillon, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Centre d'Excellence sur l'Autisme et les Troubles Neuro-développementaux, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm, CESP, Team DevPsy, Villejuif, France.,Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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14
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Kervin R, Berger C, Moon SJ, Hill H, Park D, Kim JW. Behavioral addiction and autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 117:104033. [PMID: 34325098 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2021.104033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to DSM-5 criteria, Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficiencies in social communication and interaction along with the presence of restrictive and repetitive patterns of behavior. Few studies have explored the prevalence of behavioral addiction in individuals with ASD. Since addiction and ASD share common characteristics, individuals with ASD may be more vulnerable to addictive behaviors. Some typical behavioral addictions include internet, gaming, and gambling addiction. While most previous studies on ASD and addiction have looked at chemical addiction, behavioral addiction has not been thoroughly studied to date. AIMS The objective of this study was to investigate the presence of behavioral addiction among individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. METHODS AND PROCEDURES A systematic literature search of five databases was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Search results were reviewed for the predetermined inclusion criteria independently by two authors. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS The search yielded 539 publications after the removal of duplicates. 61 met the inclusion criteria for title and abstract review. Full texts were reviewed resulting in an additional 31 being removed. The remaining 30 included 4 case reports and 26 original studies. Results included 27 studies that found a positive correlation (15 of significance, 12 of unknown significance) between a behavioral addiction and either ASD or Autistic traits, 1 found a significant negative correlation, 3 did not find a correlation. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This review is inconclusive about links between ASD and behavioral addictions. While a vast majority of studies show a positive correlation, many do not provide the statistical analysis to show if the correlations are significant. In addition, a positive correlation between ASD and behavioral addiction is observed in the presence of comorbid mental health conditions in many of the studies. Further research with proper controls and statistical analysis is needed to determine whether the development of behavioral addiction is directly influenced by ASD or if the presence of a comorbid mental health condition is the true cause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Kervin
- University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Chelsea Berger
- University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Sun Jae Moon
- Department of Internal Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Harrison Hill
- University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Dongchan Park
- Veteran's MH and Addiction Program, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Boston University Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Jung Won Kim
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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15
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Carpita B, Muti D, Nardi B, Benedetti F, Cappelli A, Cremone IM, Carmassi C, Dell’Osso L. Biochemical Correlates of Video Game Use: From Physiology to Pathology. A Narrative Review. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:775. [PMID: 34440519 PMCID: PMC8401252 DOI: 10.3390/life11080775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last few decades, video game playing progressively became a widespread activity for many people, in childhood as well in adulthood. An increasing amount of literature has focused on pathological and non-pathological correlates of video game playing, with specific attention towards Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). While many neurobiological studies in this field were based on neuroimaging, highlighting structural and functional brain changes among video game users, only a limited number of studies investigated the presence of biochemical correlates of video gaming. The present work aims to summarize and review the available literature about biochemical changes linked to video game use in IGD patients as well as non-pathological users, and the differences in between. Results may shed light on risks and benefits of video games, providing directions for further research on IGD treatment and, on other hand, on the potential role of video games in therapeutic or preventive protocols for specific conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Carpita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (B.N.); (F.B.); (A.C.); (I.M.C.); (C.C.); (L.D.)
| | - Dario Muti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; (B.N.); (F.B.); (A.C.); (I.M.C.); (C.C.); (L.D.)
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16
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Murray A, Mannion A, Chen JL, Leader G. Gaming Disorder in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:2762-2769. [PMID: 34184139 PMCID: PMC9114087 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05138-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Gaming disorder (GD) is a clinical addiction to video or internet games. This study investigated whether GD symptoms are heightened in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in comparison to a control group, and explored predictors of GD in 230 adults with ASD and 272 controls. The relationship between GD and gelotophobia was examined. Measures included the Ten-Item Internet Gaming Disorder Test, GELOPH < 15 >, Autism Spectrum Quotient-10 items, Inventory of Parent and Peer attachment, Emotional Regulation Questionnaire, Social Functioning Questionnaire (SFQ) and the NEO-FFI-3. Individuals in the ASD group showed significantly higher symptoms of GD. Peer-attachment, emotional regulation and extraversion significantly predicted GD scores. Gelotophobia and GD were related to each other with a small effect size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alayna Murray
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), School of Psychology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Arlene Mannion
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), School of Psychology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - June L Chen
- Department of Special Education, Faculty of Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Geraldine Leader
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), School of Psychology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland.
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17
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Normand CL, Fisher MH, Simonato I, Fecteau SM, Poulin MH. A Systematic Review of Problematic Internet Use in Children, Adolescents, and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-021-00270-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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18
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Autism, Problematic Internet Use and Gaming Disorder: A Systematic Review. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-021-00243-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe present study investigated the association between autism and problematic internet use (PIU) and gaming disorder (GD). A systematic literature search was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A total of 2286 publications were screened, and 21 were deemed eligible for inclusion in the review. The majority of the studies found positive associations between PIU and subclinical autistic-like traits with weak and moderate effect sizes and between PIU and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with varying effect sizes. Additionally, individuals with ASD were more likely to exhibit symptoms of GD with moderate and strong effect sizes. Future research would benefit from high-quality studies examining GD and PIU at a clinical level and their relationship with both clinical and subclinical autism.
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Coutelle R, Weiner L, Paasche C, Pottelette J, Bertschy G, Schröder CM, Lalanne L. Autism Spectrum Disorder and Video Games: Restricted Interests or Addiction? Int J Ment Health Addict 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00511-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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20
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Hassrick EM, Holmes LG, Sosnowy C, Walton J, Carley K. Benefits and Risks: A Systematic Review of Information and Communication Technology Use by Autistic People. AUTISM IN ADULTHOOD 2021; 3:72-84. [PMID: 36601264 PMCID: PMC8992882 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2020.0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Communication via the internet is a regular feature of everyday interactions for most people, including autistic people. Researchers have investigated how autistic people use information and communication technology (ICT) since the early 2000s. However, no systematic review has been conducted to summarize findings. Objective This study aims to review existing evidence presented by studies about how autistic people use ICT to communicate and provide a framework for understanding contributions, gaps, and opportunities for this literature. Methods Guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses(PRISMA) statement, we conducted a comprehensive review across five databases, searching for studies investigating how autistic youth and adults use ICT to communicate. Authors reviewed the articles for inclusion and assessed methodological quality. Results Thirty-two studies met the eligibility criteria, including 19 quantitative studies, 12 qualitative studies, and 1 mixed methods study, with data from 3026 autistic youth (n = 9 studies) and adults (n = 23 studies). Ratings suggest that the evidence base is emergent. Underrepresented groups in the sample included autistic women, transgendered autistic people, non-White autistic people, low income autistic people, and minimally speaking and/or autistic adults with co-occurring intellectual disability. Three main themes emerged, including variation in ICT communication use among autistic youth and adults, benefits and drawbacks experienced during ICT communication use, and the engagement of autistic youth and adults in the online autism community. Conclusions Further exploration of the positive social capital that autistic people gain participating in online autism communities would allow for the development of strengths-based interventions. Additional research on how autistic people navigate sexuality and ICTs is needed to identify mechanisms for reducing vulnerability online. Additional scholarship about underrepresented groups is needed to investigate and confirm findings regarding ICT communication use for gender, racial, and socioeconomic minority groups. Lay summary What was the purpose of this study?: People use the internet to communicate (talk and connect) with one another. Some research has found that autistic people may prefer to communicate using the internet instead of in person. Over the past 20 years, there has been research about how autistic people use the internet. To understand what research has discovered so far, we collected published research about how autistic youth and adults use the internet to communicate.What did the researchers do?: We used scientific best practices as described in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to collect research about how autistic people us the internet to communicate. We included research that uses words (qualitative research) and numbers (quantitative research). First, we searched several places that list research studies to find research on autistic people and the internet. Then, we removed research that did not fit what we were looking for (our criteria). Finally, we then read the full articles, collected their most important findings, and looked for patterns.What do these findings add to what is already known?: Thirty-two studies met our criteria, including 19 studies that used closed-ended survey questions that tested relationships between variables, 12 studies that used open-ended interviews and looked for patterns and connections among participants, and 1 mixed methods study. In total, 3026 autistic youth of ages 10-17 years (number of participants = 9 studies) and adults (number of participants = 23 studies) participated in these 32 studies. We rated each of the 32 studies for quality and learned that the evidence base is preliminary, meaning that more rigorous high-quality studies are needed before we can be confident in the findings. We found three main themes: (1) differences in the ways that autistic youth and adults used the internet to communicate, (2) benefits and drawbacks experienced when using the internet to communicate, and (3) the engagement of autistic youth and adults in the online autism community. Some of the benefits of social media for autistic people include more control over how they talk and engage with others online and a greater sense of calm during interactions. However, findings suggest some drawbacks for autistic people, including continued feelings of loneliness and the desire for in-person friendships. Social media provides opportunities for autistic people to find others on the autism spectrum and form a stronger identity as part of the autism community. The study also showed that there is little research about autistic women, autistic transgender people, autistic racial/ethnic minorities, or autistic people from lower socioeconomic status (SES) groups.What are potential weaknesses of this study?: We only included research in scientific articles, and there may be useful information on this topic in books, student research, or online.How will these findings help young adults on the autism spectrum now or in the future?: This study can help identify gaps and opportunities for new research, support the importance of online autistic communities, and suggest possible training opportunities about how to support autistic people when they use the internet for communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth McGhee Hassrick
- The A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Address correspondence to: Elizabeth McGhee Hassrick, PhD, The A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, 3020 Market Street, Suite 560, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Laura Graham Holmes
- The A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Collette Sosnowy
- Department of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Jessica Walton
- The A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kathleen Carley
- Institute for Software Research, School of Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, USA
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