Social media and autism spectrum conditions

For many people with an autism spectrum condition, online networking offers the opportunity to communicate with others in relative comfort. However, says Christopher Barber, nurses working in a support capacity should be aware of the accompanying risks Social media is a common and everyday method of communication which has both advantages and disadvantages for a wide variety of people—including those with an autism spectrum condition. Indeed, due to issues around social communication, many of those on the autism spectrum often prefer communicating via social media. A range of disadvantages of using social media include the potential for inappropriate use, the potential for those seeking to politically radicalise vulnerable adults and the rise of the ‘troll’. This short article will briefly explore these issues and the role of the nurse in supporting those on the autism spectrum who wish to use social media sites on the internet.