Autzy, a Social Media App for People with Autism 

Presenter(s)

Robert Mangiamele, Andrew Rizea

Abstract or Description

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects 2.78% of the US population. Children and adults with autism encounter challenges in verbal and non verbal communication. Challenges encompass difficulties with understanding or appropriately using spoken language, gestures, eye contact, facial expressions, tone of voice, and idiomatic expressions.

Additional symptoms may include difficulty with recognizing emotions and intentions of others, recognizing one’s own emotions, expressing emotions, seeking emotional comfort from others, feeling overwhelmed in social situations, taking turns in conversation, and gauging personal space.

To mitigate these challenges we have begun development of a dedicated social platform that will increase social exposure and practice. The app will provide a safe online social environment for those with ASD with language and content filters. The project aims to enhance social skills and reduce isolation.

This project has developed out of and done in conjunction with research led by Dr. Whitaker in the investigation of RNA gene LINC00896. LINC00896 is a long intergenic non-protein coding RNA located on chromosome 22 correlated with ASD.

The project collaborates with multiple departments at Bemidji State University including the Student Center for Health and Counseling and the Computer Science Department.

Mentor

Dr. Rachel A Hellmann Whitaker