Digital Information and Autism Awareness: How Modern Media Shapes Public Understanding

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital technology has transformed the ways in which autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is understood, communicated, and represented in public contexts. Social media sites, online communities and eLearning have allowed unprecedented opportunity for autistic individuals to advocate for themselves, express their identities, and create communities around those identities. We must also consider that these environments facilitate the dissemination of misinformation, stereotypical messages and ethical dilemmas related to algorithmic bias, data privacy, and use of AI-based diagnostics.
This narrative review brings together multidisciplinary literature written from 2021-2025 to understand the effects of digital media on autism awareness, identity development, and public discourse. Examples of positive effects included promotion of autistic voices, increased access to educational materials, and visibility of perspectives that affirm neurodiversity.