Digital Autism

Uncontrolled smartphone use among children can lead to serious consequences, one of which is the phenomenon known as "digital autism." While this term has not yet been officially recognized in the medical field, it is already widely known among specialists and is actively discussed in the medical community.

Early signs of digital autism can manifest as early as infancy. A child who, by the age of five months, is already holding a smartphone not only fails to develop communication skills but also begins to experience developmental delays. This occurs because the child no longer seeks contact with others, as the virtual world provides everything: bright images, cartoons, and games. This reduces the need for real conversations, leading the child to fall behind in speech and social development.

The problems worsen as children begin using smartphones at older ages. In school, they may encounter significant difficulties in communication, including increased anxiety. In adolescence, the obsession with online games and social media becomes even more pronounced. Without a proper sleep and rest schedule, irritability, aggression, and sometimes even suicidal threats may occur if the smartphone is taken away.

Symptoms of digital autism can vary depending on the child's age and the duration of gadget use. One of the first signs is a disturbance in communication. Children suffering from digital autism start avoiding interactions with those around them, and they find it difficult to engage even with their parents. They are unwilling to initiate conversations, and when they do communicate, they often rely solely on text messages or social media, which deteriorates their face-to-face communication skills.

Children may become excessively irritable and aggressive. The slightest intervention, such as an attempt to take away the smartphone, can lead to a violent reaction, and in some cases, they may even threaten self-harm if asked to put the device down. In older children, who spend a significant amount of time on social networks and online games, signs of depression, anxiety, and heightened nervousness may manifest.

Another prominent symptom is the disruption of daily routines. A child absorbed in smartphone screens may lose track of time, fail to go to bed on time, and skip meals. This can lead to physical fatigue, concentration problems, and poor academic performance. It is also important to note that children often become addicted to their gadgets. As soon as they are separated from their device, they begin to experience anxiety and distress.

Decreased social activity is yet another noticeable symptom. Children immersed in the virtual world begin to lose interest in outdoor activities, physical exercise, or interacting with friends. Instead, they prefer to spend time alone with screens, which negatively impacts their social development.

Experts recommend limiting screen time and redirecting a child's attention to more active forms of engagement, such as sports or creative clubs, to help mitigate the negative effects of digital addiction.