Increased Screen Time and Autism-Like Symptoms in Children: A Systematic Review
TL;DR
Excessive screen time is consistently associated with autismlike symptoms in children, although causality remains uncertain due to study design limitations, and early-life exposure may represent a modifiable risk factor warranting preventive guidelines.
Abstract
Background: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism-like symptoms are increasingly linked with environmental and lifestyle factors, including rising screen time exposure in children. Evidence suggests potential associations between digital media use and neurodevelopmental outcomes. Aim: To systematically review the association between increased screen time and autism-like symptoms in children and adolescents. Methods: This review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar were searched (2010–2025). Eligible studies included observational, cohort, cross-sectional, longitudinal, and interventional designs assessing screen exposure and ASD-related outcomes in individuals aged 0–18 years. Data were narratively synthesized due to heterogeneity. Results: A total of 45 studies were included. Of these, 22 demonstrated direct associations between higher screen exposure and autism-like traits, including social communication deficits, language delay, and increased ASD symptom severity. The remaining 23 studies provided supportive evidence linking screen time with sleep disturbances, sedentary behavior, behavioral dysregulation, and reduced quality of life. Cohort and interventional studies suggested temporal relationships and potential improvement in symptoms following screen reduction. Conclusion: Excessive screen time is consistently associated with autismlike symptoms in children, although causality remains uncertain due to study design limitations. Early-life exposure may represent a modifiable risk factor warranting preventive guidelines.