Autistic Hazards

[ More Articles ]

Computer Games / Video Games: These tend to create the flow state in autistics as they easily understand the simplified score-based gaming environment in contrast to our uncertain and ambiguous reality. They often end up being addicted to these games instead of developing their intellect or social skills. However, educational games may be permissible.

Non-Educational Movies: Lacking sufficient maturity, these children easily misunderstand the social interactions that they see. They may copy mannerisms, ways of speaking (such as vulgarities) and behaviors (such as hitting people). They may also become frightened or agitated by some of the scenes.

Internet Chatting: I have personally found this very addictive. In order to rid myself of this unproductive waste of time, I had to go "cold turkey".

Virtual Reality: The simplified social environments of virtual reality are potentially very addictive to autistics. Teachers and parents should supervise autistic children or teenagers who are new to the Internet until they are mature enough to avoid becoming addicted.