Exploring the Social Media in Communication of Talented Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Malaysia

Abstract

Young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are more vulnerable to social anxiety,  digital overstimulation and cyberbullying, particularly if they have exceptional talents.  These challenges underscore the critical need to address the risks and benefits of digital  engagement when creating inclusive and psychologically safe online spaces. The study  explores the position of social media by gifted individuals with ASD in Malaysia as a key  feature of communication and the possibility to express feelings and to interact with the  global world. Understand that people with ASD have distinct disadvantages in face-to-face  social interactions that are caused by variations in sensory processing and communication  preferences; social media can serve as a specifically friendly and individually paced digital  environment where neurodivergent persons can bring to bear the special abilities and treat  these people confidently in the digital field. The purposive sampling consists of the choice  of three representatives of Instagram and TikTok account profiles chosen based on  relevancy and visibility to approach a 2023-2025 qualitative thematic analysis. To evaluate  communication patterns, identity construction and audience response, visual content,  captions and comment interactions were analysed. The analysis reveals that the dynamic  processes by these people negotiate identity, successfully express the multidimensional  talents and take control of the communication management in the digital sphere. It is much  easier for neurodivergent individuals to express being online, and the ability gained from  these people is mostly in the form of communication, however, there are risks associated  with digital engagement as well such as performance anxiety and sensory overload. The  study concludes that platforms created with values that support neurodiversity can greatly  enhance the mental health and public visibility of individuals with ASD. It recommends  tactical partnerships in the development of digital inclusion that aims at promoting  communication exposure to employ the skills that are unique to this neurodiverse group to  meet wider acceptance and appreciation of the ability in society.