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Social Media Use and Happiness in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Deborah M Ward1, Karen E Dill-Shackleford1, Micah O Mazurek2
11 School of Psychology, Fielding Graduate University , Santa Barbara, California.
Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Social Networking
|February 28, 2018
Summary
Social media use, particularly Facebook, may boost happiness in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Moderate engagement appears beneficial, potentially protecting against common mental health issues in this population.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Digital Well-being
Background:
- Social media (SM) use patterns and effects in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remain under-researched.
- Adults with ASD frequently experience co-occurring mental health conditions, including depression.
- Understanding factors influencing well-being in this demographic is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between social media usage and happiness levels in adults with self-identified ASD.
- To explore if specific social media platforms correlate differently with happiness.
Main Methods:
- Survey of adults with self-disclosed autism spectrum disorder.
- Analysis of social media usage habits, including platform preferences (Facebook, Twitter).
- Statistical examination of the relationship between social media use and self-reported happiness.
Main Results:
- 84% of the sample reported using social media.
- Adults with ASD who used Facebook reported higher happiness levels compared to non-users.
- A quadratic relationship was observed between social media use and happiness, indicating a potential optimal level of engagement.
Conclusions:
- Moderate social media use, especially Facebook, may positively impact the well-being of adults with ASD.
- Social media engagement could serve as a protective factor against secondary mental health challenges in adults with autism spectrum disorder.
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