Abstract
In today's hyperconnected world, social media provides more than social support. In fact, social scientists have linked it to the wellbeing of individuals. Social media sites provide open and accessible communication platforms for families, caregivers, and individuals with autism. They are able to share, connect, and exchange information. Furthermore, social media is an efficient means of connecting due to communication challenges of autistic individuals. However, there is a need to scientifically measure social support and stress dissipated through online interaction. Using the proposed assessment methodology of social support and stress in online interaction, it is observed that the autism community provides significant social support to its members through Twitter and blogs. Social support facilitated by interactions with autism community members reduces psychological stress and improves the quality of life for the families dealing with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).