Behavioral Challenges for Children and Adolescents with Disabilities Using Social Media and Playing Video Games

Abstract

Literature review shows an increasing interest in investigating the impact that social media and the use of video games have on typically developed children and adolescents, as the number of users has grown significantly, social media being the most popular activity engaged in by individuals online. This situation along with some inappropriate behaviors the users display as a consequence of a long exposure to different online contents, determined the inclusion of a psychiatric disorder of gaming addiction in reference manuals related to mental health. Nevertheless, the number of studies regarding children with disabilities and their engagement in online activities, including social media and video games is significantly smaller. The aim of this study is to identify the relationship between the use of social media and the occurrence of disruptive behaviors in students with special educational requirements, aged between 11 and 17 years old, according to the data collected from teachers, parents and relatives.