Screen time and autism like behavior: Cross-sectional study from Georgia

Early childhood is a critical neurodevelopmental period during which environmental exposures may influence cognitive, language, and social outcomes. Screen media use has become increasingly prevalent in infancy and toddlerhood, yet evidence regarding its association with autism screening outcomes remains inconsistent.

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among children aged 16-30 months. Surveys were completed by primary caregivers between April 2025 and January 2026 through in-clinic recruitment and online distribution. Autism screening was performed using the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised with Follow-Up (M-CHAT-R/F). All variables were parent-reported.

Higher average daily screen time at assessment and over the preceding six and twelve months was significantly associated with higher M-CHAT-R/F scores. Screen exposure before 12 months of age was associated with a greater likelihood of moderate- and high-risk screening classifications. In multivariate models, earlier exposure and longer screen time duration remained significant positive predictors of M-CHAT-R/F scores.

Both the timing and duration of screen exposure were associated with increased autism screening risk scores. Although causal inferences cannot be made and effect sizes were small to moderate, the findings support current pediatric recommendations discouraging screen exposure during infancy.