Psychologist Erna Yulianti warns parents of neurodivergent children to critically evaluate viral social media posts, highlighting the dangers of misinformation and unprofessional advice that can influence parenting decisions and perceptions.
Parents of neurodivergent children should be more careful about what they absorb from social media and avoid using viral posts as a basis for self-diagnosis, according to psychologist Erna Yulianti, who warned that unchecked online advice can quickly turn into harmful assumptions about a child’s condition.
Speaking to Antara, Yulianti said the flood of content on Instagram and TikTok can shape how parents respond to their children, especially when influencers present advice with authority but without clear evidence. She urged families to check whether a creator is qualified to speak on a subject and whether the material cites credible references.
Her warning echoes broader concerns about autism and ADHD content online. Healthline reported on a Drexel University study that found only 27% of popular autism-related TikTok videos were accurate, while more than 41% were completely wrong, underlining how easily misleading claims can spread on short-form video platforms.
Yulianti also cautioned against relying on artificial intelligence for diagnosis, saying it cannot replace a paediatrician or psychologist. For parents unsure about a child’s development, she advised seeking professional assessment rather than trying to piece together a conclusion from the internet, particularly because neurodivergent children often need support that differs from neurotypical children.
That advice aligns with wider guidance from health and safety organisations, which urge parents to verify what they see online, set boundaries around social media use and keep a close eye on the material children are consuming. The common thread is simple: online information can be useful, but when it concerns a child’s health or development, it should be checked against expert advice before any decision is made.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
