Florida's First Choice for Autism Supports

B1A: The Digital Danger Zone: How the Internet Exacerbates Sexual Violence Against Autistic Youth

January 17, 2026 9:45am 11:00am Salon 1

AbstractThis session explores how the digital world creates new vulnerabilities for autistic youth—particularly around grooming, coercion, and sexual violence. Drawing from personal experience and psychological research, I examine how communication differences and social isolation are weaponized online. The presentation will provide trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming strategies for prevention and support, especially for professionals, caregivers, and self-advocates seeking to create safer digital spaces.
Objectives1. Identify three major digital risks that uniquely impact autistic youth.
2. Understand how traits like sensory sensitivity, social naivety, and masking increase vulnerability.
3. Apply trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming strategies to reduce harm and build online safety supports.
Adult Communication Safety Transition

Speakers

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