Drawbacks to Technology

There are some significant drawbacks to using technology in the treatment of autism in some cases. Those who use mid technology and high technology for individuals who are not developmentally prepared may find that the child uses the devices for stimulation rather than communication or cognitive development.

These augmentative technological devices offer sensory feedback that many autistic children will enjoy strictly for their presentational value. They may not use the device as a means of expressive communication but as a means of entertainment.

Video games are of particular concern because the serve as a type of escape for the player. The goal for the treatment of autism is to integrate the individual into his surroundings. Activities like video games and computer games isolate the individual and may be a source of an obsession rather than as a means of social and cognitive development.