Intersections Between the Autism Spectrum and the Internet: Perceived Benefits and Preferred Functions of Computer-Mediated Communication

Abstract

An online survey compared the perceived benefits and preferred functions of computer-mediated communication of participants with (N = 291) and without ASD (N = 311). Participants with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) perceived benefits of computer-mediated communication in terms of increased comprehension and control over communication, access to similar others, and the opportunity to express their true selves. They enjoyed using the Internet to meet others more, and to maintain connections with friends and family less, than did participants without ASD. People with ASD enjoyed aspects of computer-mediated communication that may be associated with special interests or advocacy, such as blogging, more than did participants without ASD. This study suggests that people with ASD may use the Internet in qualitatively different ways from those without ASD. Suggestions for interventions are discussed.

Increasing Interest of Mass Communication Media and the General Public in the Distribution of Tweets About Mental Disorders: Observational Study (Preprint)

“…Twitter use allows anonymity favoring the expression of people with real or perceived personal and/or or social restrictions [42]. The reported use of Twitter by transgender individuals and allies to discuss health and social needs supports this statement [43].…”

Computer-Mediated Communication Usage and Perceptions Amongst Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

“…Additionally, they found people with ASD perceived many benefits to communicating online, such as "increased time to think and practice interacting" (Gillespie-Lynch et al 2014, p. 461), opportunities for self-expression, and opportunities to meet new people with similar interests or experiences. Additionally, people with ASD reported they found enjoyment in sharing experiences, writing blogs, and participating in discussion groups more so than those without ASD (Gillespie-Lynch et al, 2014). However, this same study also revealed that people with ASD found less enjoyment in using the Internet to keep in touch with family and friends and in accessing social networking sites compared to those without ASD (Gillespie-Lynch et al, 2014).…”

“…Additionally, people with ASD reported they found enjoyment in sharing experiences, writing blogs, and participating in discussion groups more so than those without ASD (Gillespie-Lynch et al, 2014). However, this same study also revealed that people with ASD found less enjoyment in using the Internet to keep in touch with family and friends and in accessing social networking sites compared to those without ASD (Gillespie-Lynch et al, 2014).…”

“…The current data available indicate a contradiction in the way people with ASD seem to prefer using the Internet, whether it be to journal, blog, or share information about a hobby rather than connect with people over social networking sites (Gillespie-Lynch, et al, 2014;Shpigelman & Gill, 2014), leading to a need for further study of CMC use by this population. Additionally, there is some evidence to suggest that because of the reduction of communication challenges when using the Internet, people with ASD can use this mode of communication to become better self-advocates (Brownlow & O'Dell, 2006).…”

“…Although studies specific to SNSs have been completed with other populations, it has been determined that use of SNSs varies based on age, gender, and personality (Orchard et al, 2014), while some with ASD prefer different types of CMC altogether (Gillespie-Lynch, et al, 2014).…”