WHAT IS AUTISM?
The causes of ASD are not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in helping individuals with autism develop essential skills and improve their quality of life. Treatment approaches often include behavioral therapies, speech and language therapy, and personalized educational plans designed to meet the unique needs of each individual.
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/autism-spectrum-disorders-asd
Long Term Benefits of gaming for Autistic People
While many people may try to tell you otherwise, gaming can have a range of positive impacts on the well-being of autistic people:
Learning and Thinking Skills
The skills required to succeed in most video games are transferable to other areas of day-to-day functioning. Whether it’s quick response times or the ability to think critically to solve problems, many games sharpen skills that benefit us in other areas. Improved focus, creativity and visual memory are just some examples, with users able to develop these skills in a way they enjoy, often without even realising it.
Social interaction
Autistic people can also use games as a more comfortable means of social interaction. Where socialising face-to-face can be uncomfortable and overwhelming, interactions via gameplay don’t follow as many traditional social rules. Players can choose how much or little they want to participate in social interactions, if at all.
Therapeutic benefits
Traditional therapies and supports can sometimes be less effective or accessible for people on the autism spectrum. Some therapists have noticed the affinity autistic people have for gaming and have even incorporated popular games into how they deliver their support. Minecraft, for example, is used in a range of therapies supporting autistic people to increase their levels of comfort and engagement.
Source: https://www.autismawareness.com.au/update/gaming-for-good-healthy-habits-for-autistic-people