Virtual Autism: Understanding Its Causes, Differences, and How to Manage It



Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is widely recognized as one of the most common developmental disorders, with a noticeable increase in cases over the past decades. According to a report by the American Autism Association, 1% of the global population is affected by ASD. At the same time, various events and activities organized each year serve as an effective means of raising awareness about autism, targeting all age groups.
While it's understood that spending excessive time in imaginary worlds can influence behavior and social interactions, it does not cause ASD directly. However, it may lead to what is referred to as "Virtual Autism", a term explored in this report, along with its causes, management strategies, and the difference between it and traditional autism.
In a conversation with Dr. Wissam Wisam Hamza, a family relations consultant and behavior modification specialist, and a certified lecturer at "Tarjuman Al Arab" Foundation, we explore this topic in more detail.
What is Virtual Autism?
In today's rapidly evolving world, entertainment through visual media—such as television, screens, and smart devices—has taken over children's lives. This has led many parents to question the psychological and behavioral impacts of these electronic devices, sparking scientific discussions and studies around the issue.
Some studies indicate that the increasing amount of time children spend in these virtual worlds impacts their social behavior, communication skills, and ability to interact with others. Symptoms like difficulty reading emotions and forming friendships in children and adolescents are commonly seen. These symptoms closely resemble those of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In severe cases, this can develop into an inability to recognize lies in conversation, difficulty accepting differing opinions, and expressing views in inappropriate ways.
Excessive use of smart tablets and devices is therefore referred to as "Virtual Autism".
Medical Recommendations for Children's Use of Electronic Devices

Under 2 years old: No use of smartphones, tablets, or TV, as it can severely impact language, social, and behavioral development.
Ages 2 to 5: Limit screen time to only 1 hour per day.
Ages 6 and above: Parents have more flexibility in determining screen time, but must be cautious about the content being consumed.
Virtual Autism vs. Autism Spectrum Disorder
Dr. Wissam Wisam explains the differences:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A severe neurodevelopmental disorder that persists throughout life, with roots in genetic and neurological factors. It severely impacts the ability to communicate with the outside world.
Virtual Autism: A milder form of the disorder, caused by environmental factors such as excessive screen time. Unlike ASD, it can be mitigated with appropriate intervention.
Causes of Virtual Autism
The rapid growth of technology, with numerous electronic devices now accessible to children anytime and anywhere, has led to a strong bond between children and their screens. Prolonged viewing of TV programs or engagement with virtual reality can exhibit behaviors similar to those seen in ASD.
Children may absorb information well when watching screens but fail to develop proper language or social skills. This begins in the early years, when children are naturally inclined to interact with the world. Over time, excessive screen use results in weakened social skills and improper neurological development.
Educational academies are now adapting to these challenges, offering specialized curricula for children with learning difficulties, ADHD, and using methods like the Montessori approach. These strategies focus on building social interaction skills, alongside academic and physical activities, to help children cope with the impacts of virtual autism.
Managing Autism Spectrum Disorder and Virtual Autism
Dr. Wissam Wisam further explains: "There's still confusion in educational academies regarding the differences between environmental deprivation and ASD. Environmental deprivation includes a lack of emotional, sensory, linguistic, auditory, and motor stimulation, while excessive screen exposure affects a child's developmental stages in a way that doesn't support the natural growth of their nervous system, particularly during the critical first three years of life."
She emphasizes the importance of early and accurate diagnosis to distinguish between Virtual Autism and ASD. If diagnosed with virtual autism, intervention should focus on environmental therapy, encouraging social interaction, relationship-building, and effective communication.
The collaboration between psychologists, families, and educational institutions is essential for successful therapy and behavioral modification, with a focus on teaching social skills and behavioral management.
Statistics on Autism Diagnosis
Studies show a significant rise in ASD diagnoses: in 1975, 1 in 5000 children was diagnosed, which increased to 1 in 500 in 2005, and has now reached 1 in 68 children diagnosed with autism.
This report aims to raise awareness about Virtual Autism, its causes, and differences from traditional Autism Spectrum Disorder, urging parents and educators to carefully manage screen time and support the social and cognitive development of children.

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