Autism and Its Relationship with Screen Exposure in Children: A Systematic Review Based on Recent Evidence (2019–2025)

Background Recent evidence suggests that early, prolonged, and unmediated exposure to screens is associated with delays in the development of language, attention, and social interaction in children, dimensions frequently altered in autism spectrum disorder. Objectives: To analyse recent scientific evidence on the association between digital screen exposure in childhood and the presence of manifestations compatible with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A search was conducted in Scopus, EBSCO, and JANE for full-text articles published between 2019 and 2025 in English, Spanish, or Chinese. Observational and longitudinal studies that evaluated time, age of onset, or intensity of screen exposure and variables related to ASD or neuropsychological development were included. Results: Thirty-one studies were included. The synthesis of evidence shows a consistent association between increased screen exposure, especially when it begins before the age of two and without parental mediation, and the presence of autistic symptoms, language delays, and difficulties in social interaction. Factors such as male gender, early age of onset, and low caregiver-child interaction acted as relevant modulators. Some studies reported heterogeneity in effects without establishing causality. Conclusions: Early and unregulated digital exposure is associated with neurodevelopmental risk indicators. The findings support preventive interventions focused on parental education, systematic assessment of screen time, and promotion of face-to-face interactions, with a strategic role for nursing professionals in early detection and family guidance.