For many autistic adults, the digital world is an integral part of daily life. It can serve as a bridge for communication, a source of information, and even a safe space. However, a study published in Cyberpsychol Behav Soc Netw, 2026 Sep, examined a less-discussed aspect - the link between social media use and a tendency towards social withdrawal, sometimes called 'Hikikomori', among autistic young adults and young adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
What was examined and what was found?
The study focused on young adults with a self-diagnosis of Autism or ADHD, and examined how different types of social media use - passive versus active - and online gaming, are related to the degree of vulnerability to social withdrawal. The researchers found that among the participants, autistic young adults reported a higher tendency for social withdrawal compared to young adults with ADHD. This tendency was particularly prominent in social difficulties and physical isolation.
Although total screen time did not show significant differences between the groups, the researchers observed different trends in usage: autistic young adults appeared to lean more towards passive social media use (such as scrolling and viewing content without active interaction), and less towards online gaming with others.
The main and most significant finding is the positive correlation found between passive social media use and general vulnerability to social withdrawal. This link was particularly prominent in measures of isolation and the need for emotional support. In contrast, active social media use (such as posting, commenting, and chatting) did not show such a link.
What does this mean for autistic young adults in Israel?
The study's findings indicate that the way we use the digital world may affect our social well-being. For autistic adults in Israel, who may generally face social challenges, these findings highlight the importance of awareness of online usage patterns. It appears that passive consumption of social media content may be linked to feelings of isolation and withdrawal. In contrast, more active and balanced engagement - even if it manifests in different ways for each person - may offer a healthier alternative.
It is important to remember that this is a preliminary study indicating correlations and not direct causality. However, it provides an interesting perspective on how neurodiversity affects interaction with the digital world, and emphasizes the potential of conscious choices regarding social media use to support personal and social well-being.