Engagement, motivation, or sustained attention? Rethinking the effects of technology in autism - Scorecard - MDSpire

Engagement, motivation, or sustained attention? Rethinking the effects of technology in autism

  • By

  • Anna Meduri

  • Chiara Marraffa

  • Gaia Roccaforte

  • Paola Chilà

  • Chiara Failla

  • Giorgio Gugliotta

  • Giovanni Pioggia

  • Flavia Marino

  • April 17, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Reevaluating the Impact of Technology on Autism: Engagement, Motivation, or Sustained Attention?

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
Condition
Key MechanismsTechnology may support sustained attention through predictable structure, sensory coherence, repetition, and immediate feedback, as discussed in the literature.
Target Population
Care Setting

Key Highlights

  • Clarify the distinction between engagement and sustained attention in the highlights.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Assess ASD using standardized diagnostic criteria such as DSM-5 or ICD-10 and consider attentional styles.

Management

    Monitoring & Follow-up

      Risks

        Patient & Prescribing Data

        Individuals diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

        Technology may enhance sustained attention but does not necessarily increase intrinsic motivation or engagement.

        Clinical Best Practices

        • Include a recommendation on how to operationalize engagement and motivation in clinical practice.

        References

        Original Source(s)

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