A growing body of research suggests that early exposure to screens may be linked to an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children. Findings from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, funded by the Australian government, have highlighted a significant correlation between high screen time in early childhood and later ASD diagnoses.
The impact of early screen exposure on ASD risk
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics examined the screen habits of two-year-olds, tracking their ASD diagnoses until age 12. By analyzing data from 5,107 children, researchers found that those who spent more than 14 hours per week in front of screens before their second birthday had an 80% higher likelihood of receiving an ASD diagnosis between ages six and twelve compared to children with lower exposure.
Out of the study’s participants, 145 children were diagnosed with ASD by age 12, with boys being four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls. However, while the study highlights a strong correlation, it does not claim that screen time directly causes autism. Instead, researchers suggest that prolonged digital exposure may influence neurodevelopmental factors associated with ASD.
The broader effects of screen time on child development
Separate research published in JAMA Pediatrics has linked early digital exposure to atypical sensory processing in young children. An analysis of 1,471 children from the National Children’s Study (NCS), conducted by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, found significant sensory differences in children exposed to screens from infancy.
Using the Sensory Profile for Infants and Toddlers, researchers measured various sensory behaviors:
✔ Low registration – Difficulty recognizing sensory input ✔ Sensation seeking – Increased need for sensory stimulation ✔ Sensory sensitivity – Heightened response to stimuli ✔ Sensation avoidance – Tendency to withdraw from certain sensory experiences
The findings revealed that children exposed to television or video content from 12 months of age exhibited irregular sensory processing patterns by 33 months. Those with high screen exposure at 12 months were twice as likely to show low sensory registration, meaning they struggled to process sensory information effectively.
By 18 months, increased screen time correlated with a higher risk of sensation avoidance and low registration. By 24 months, children with prolonged screen exposure displayed increased tendencies for sensation seeking, sensory sensitivity, and avoidance behaviors—all of which are commonly observed in children with ASD.
How digital exposure affects brain chemistry
Emerging evidence suggests that excessive screen time may also alter brain chemistry, affecting key neurotransmitters linked to ASD. Studies indicate that prolonged digital exposure can impact levels of:
✔ Melatonin – Regulates sleep-wake cycles; often disrupted in individuals with ASD ✔ Dopamine – Associated with motivation and reward; excessive stimulation may contribute to attention issues ✔ Acetylcholine – Crucial for learning and memory; imbalances can affect cognitive functions ✔ GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) – Regulates brain excitability; disruptions may contribute to sensory overload
These neurochemical changes highlight how digital overstimulation during critical developmental periods may influence brain function and sensory processing.
Recommendations for parents and healthcare providers
While digital devices are an integral part of modern life, researchers urge parents to limit screen exposure in early childhood to support healthy neurological development. Pediatricians and child psychologists increasingly recommend:
✔ Reducing screen time before age two, following guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) ✔ Encouraging interactive play and real-world sensory experiences to promote brain development ✔ Screening for excessive digital exposure in early childhood health assessments to identify potential risks early ✔ Establishing screen-free routines, especially before bedtime, to support healthy sleep patterns and melatonin regulation
A cautious approach to screen time
While screens have become an unavoidable part of childhood, research underscores the importance of moderation—especially during early developmental years. The link between early screen exposure and ASD-related traits highlights the need for further studies, but the existing evidence suggests that limiting digital exposure in infancy and toddlerhood may support healthier cognitive and sensory development. As technology continues to evolve, understanding its impact on young minds remains a crucial aspect of pediatric health research.
