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How are School-aged Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder Using Digital Media? A Qualitative Study of Families'
Deanna Pennewitt1, Aubrey Borgen2, Megan Warfle3
1Division of Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics : JDBP
|February 19, 2026
Summary
Digital media use presents both benefits and challenges for children with autism. Caregivers need individualized strategies to navigate screen time, considering its functional role in their child's life.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Psychology
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Research
Background:
- Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may face unique challenges with digital media.
- Limited qualitative research exists on the lived experiences of children with ASD and their caregivers regarding digital media use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To qualitatively explore the context, content, and function of digital media use in children with ASD.
- To examine behavioral strategies and challenges faced by caregivers and children with ASD in navigating digital media.
Main Methods:
- Involved 22 caregivers and 10 children with autism (aged 6-11) through qualitative interviews.
- Utilized inductive thematic analysis on interview transcripts to identify key themes.
- Collected demographic, child characteristic, and digital media habit data via questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Children with autism averaged 4.3 hours of daily screen time, with high rates of personal device ownership.
- Identified themes include: pervasive digital media exposure, skill-building via media, media as a coping mechanism, diverse caregiver strategies, parental guilt, privacy concerns, and the dual nature of digital media.
- Caregivers reported varied approaches to managing digital media use.
Conclusions:
- Digital media serves multiple functions for children with autism, acting as a tool for learning, skill development, and emotional regulation.
- Caregivers experience significant challenges, including societal pressures and privacy concerns, necessitating tailored support.
- Emphasizes the need for flexible, individualized guidance for families managing digital media use in children with autism.
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