A growing body of evidence links screen-time exposure to a wide range of psychiatric issues, including mood dysregulation, inattention, hyperarousal, anxiety, and non-restorative sleep.  These manifestations are likely produced by various stress-induced changes inherent to the highly stimulating nature of screen-time, such as disruption of the body clock and release of dopamine. Many of these underlying mechanisms and outward symptoms already occur in children with autism, suggesting screen-time synergizes autism pathology.  At the same time, there is a high rate of technology addiction in the ASD population, while parents, clinicians, and educators are encouraged to use screen-based technology as a reinforcer, compounding the problem.  Other research has explored whether exposure to early screen-time and/or EMFs from wireless communications are contributing factors in the development of autism itself. By examining the common mechanisms involved in autism and screen-time side effects as well as case studies of ASD children who underwent an extended “electronic fast” as an intervention, we can begin to unravel how digital devices—and elimination thereof—can have a profound impact on ASD symptoms, dysfunction, and quality of life for the entire family.

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