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Early Social Experience and Digital-Media Exposure in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Vaisakh Krishnan1, Padinharath Krishnakumar2, V K Gireeshan3
1Department of Pediatrics, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India.
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|January 20, 2021
Summary
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) show earlier and more extensive digital media exposure and less social interaction with mothers. Early digital media use may increase ASD risk, highlighting potential modifiable factors.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Child Psychology
Background:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) prevalence is rising.
- Early life experiences significantly influence child development.
- Understanding environmental factors in ASD is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare early social experiences and digital media exposure in children with ASD versus typically developing children.
- Investigate the association between digital media use and ASD risk.
- Identify potential early life risk factors for ASD.
Main Methods:
- Comparative study of 65 children with ASD and 65 typically developing controls, matched for age and gender.
- Detailed assessment of digital media exposure and social interactions.
- Logistic regression analysis of relevant prenatal, perinatal, and early life factors.
Main Results:
- Children with ASD had earlier and greater digital media exposure and less mother-child interaction.
- Digital media exposure before 21 months was linked to increased ASD risk.
- Risk was amplified by less than 6.5 hours of daily maternal interaction.
Conclusions:
- Significant differences exist in early social and digital media environments for children with ASD.
- Early digital media exposure and reduced maternal interaction are potential modifiable risk factors.
- Further prospective research is needed to confirm these findings and inform interventions.
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