A Systematic Review of Problematic Internet Use in Children, Adolescents, and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder

This systematic review was conducted to identify the literature examining the prevalence of problematic internet use (PIU) in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the difference in prevalence of PIU between those with and without ASD, and the correlates of PIU in ASD. Ten studies were identified. The eight studies with comparison groups reported that individuals with ASD had more symptoms of or scored higher on PIU. Correlates of PIU included time spent online and age at which individuals first went online, as well as depression, inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, opposition, and escapism. Results indicate that additional research is needed to examine PIU in adults with ASD and the causal relation of factors related to PIU in ASD through longitudinal studies.