Virtual Autism
Uploaded by
AYAZ AHMAD KHANVirtual Autism
Uploaded by
AYAZ AHMAD KHANVirtual autism, also known as digital autism or e-autism, refers to the potential impact of excessive
screen time and digital media on children's social, emotional, and cognitive development, leading to
symptoms similar to those of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Pathology:
While virtual autism is not an officially recognized medical condition, it is a topic of growing concern
among researchers, clinicians, and parents. The pathology of virtual autism is thought to be related to:
1. Excessive screen time: Prolonged exposure to screens and digital media can lead to a range of
negative effects, including social isolation, decreased attention span, and reduced empathy.
2. Social interaction deficits: Reduced face-to-face social interaction can impede the development of
essential social skills, such as communication, empathy, and conflict resolution.
3. Sensory processing difficulties: The intense sensory stimulation provided by digital media can lead to
sensory processing difficulties, including hypersensitivity to certain sounds or lights.
4. Delayed cognitive development: Excessive screen time has been linked to delayed cognitive
development, including reduced problem-solving skills, memory, and language abilities.
Symptoms:
Children who spend excessive time engaging with digital media may exhibit symptoms similar to those
of ASD, including:
1. Social withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions or preferring digital media to human interaction.
2. Communication difficulties: Struggling to initiate or maintain conversations, or having difficulty with
nonverbal communication.
3. Repetitive behaviors: Engaging in repetitive behaviors, such as watching the same video or playing the
same game repeatedly.
4. Sensory sensitivities: Exhibiting hypersensitivity to certain sounds, lights, or other sensory stimuli.
In virtual autism, brain functioning is affected in various ways, leading to difficulties with social
interaction, communication, and sensory processing. Here's a simplified overview of the brain regions
and systems involved:
Brain Regions Affected
1. Default Mode Network (DMN): The DMN, responsible for social cognition, self-referential thinking,
and mind-wandering, is altered in virtual autism.
2. Mirror Neuron System (MNS): The MNS, essential for empathy, social understanding, and imitation, is
impaired in virtual autism.
3. Amygdala: The amygdala, responsible for emotional processing, is hyper-responsive in virtual autism,
leading to increased anxiety and stress.
4. Prefrontal Cortex (PFC): The PFC, involved in executive function, decision-making, and regulation, is
underdeveloped in virtual autism.
Neurotransmitters and Hormones
1. Dopamine: Dopamine, essential for reward processing, motivation, and pleasure, is imbalanced in
virtual autism.
2. Serotonin: Serotonin, involved in mood regulation, social behavior, and appetite, is altered in virtual
autism.
3. Oxytocin: Oxytocin, often referred to as the "cuddle hormone," is essential for social bonding and
attachment. Its levels are reduced in virtual autism.
Brain Functioning Characteristics
1. Hyperarousal: Virtual autism is characterized by hyperarousal, leading to increased anxiety, stress,
and emotional reactivity.
2. Sensory Processing Difficulties: Individuals with virtual autism often experience sensory processing
difficulties, including hypersensitivity to certain sounds, lights, or textures.
3. Social Cognition Impairments: Virtual autism is marked by impairments in social cognition, including
difficulties with eye contact, facial recognition, and social interaction.
4. Executive Function Deficits: Individuals with virtual autism often exhibit executive function deficits,
including difficulties with planning, organization, and self-regulation.
Keep in mind that virtual autism is not an officially recognized medical condition, and more research is
needed to fully understand its underlying neurobiological mechanisms.
