Sarcasm Detection and Comprehension in Social Media Conversations Among Individuals with High-Functioning Autism
摘要
Sarcasm, a form of indirect language often used in social media, has posed significant challenges for individuals with High Functioning Autism (HFA), who typically struggle with non-literal language comprehension. This study investigates the ability of HFA individuals to detect and understand sarcasm in social media interactions focusing on its potential impact on social anxiety and the perception of online bullying. Using qualitative interviews with 10 HFA individuals, the study analyzed their experiences with sarcastic content on platforms such as Twitter and Facebook. Our findings reveal that the majority of participants had difficulty accurately identifying sarcasm, which contributed to increased levels of anxiety. These results highlight the need for enhanced assistive tools to support better sarcasm detection and improve social communication outcomes for HFA individuals. This study provides a framework for future research on improving sarcasm comprehension and reducing the risk of miscommunication in digital environments.