Authors: Sawani Gupta, Dr. Lalit Kumar
Abstract: This study investigates the emerging phenomenon of Virtual Autism, a set of autism-like symptoms associated with excessive digital screen exposure in young children. Virtual Autism presents with speech delays, poor eye contact, social withdrawal, hyperactivity, and reduced attention, mimicking classical Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Unlike ASD, these symptoms are environmentally induced and reversible with structured interventions. This paper examines the impact of screen exposure on cognitive, social, and emotional development, emphasizing the role of parental supervision and digital regulation. Using epidemiological and clinical data from urban India, results indicate that higher parental involvement, structured screen-time rules, and supervised media consumption significantly improve cognitive outcomes, social engagement, and emotional regulation. The findings underscore the importance of early detection, parental guidance, and evidence-based policy interventions to mitigate developmental risks associated with digital overexposure.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20960447
