My ASD Child

Introduction: The Screen as Sanctuary For many autistic teenagers, technology isn’t just entertainment—it’s oxygen. It’s how they decompress, communicate, explore interests, and feel competent in a world that often overwhelms them. Parents, however, frequently experience this relationship with technology as a battleground. You may watch your teen spend hours on their phone, scrolling, gaming, or coding, and wonder, Is this healthy? Should I limit it? Am I losing my child to a screen? Before answering those questions, it’s important to understand the unique role technology plays for autistic teens. Screens can serve as both refuge and risk, offering safety and stimulation while sometimes deepening isolation or anxiety. The goal isn’t to eliminate technology—it’s to help your teen use it in ways that soothe, connect, and empower rather than consume. This chapter explores the emotional, neurological, and relational functions of technology for autistic teens. We’ll examine how to transf...