Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 27, 2026

Using the Threat Probability Task to Assess Anxiety and Fear During Uncertain and Certain Threat
Published on: September 12, 2014
Nightmares and anxiety in elementary-aged children: is there a relationship
1Department of Psychology, St. Joseph's University, Philadelphia 19131, USA. jmindell@sju.edu
Objective:
To determine whether a relationship exists between children's anxiety level and nightmare occurrence.
Method:
A total of 60 kindergarten, second and fourth grade school children and their parents completed questionnaires assessing nightmare occurrence and anxiety.
Results:
According to parental report, children who experience nightmares have significantly higher levels of anxiety than children who do not experience nightmares. The results also indicate a relationship between nightmare distress and trait anxiety.
Conclusion:
These findings suggest that anxiety issues should be considered in children who are experiencing nightmares.
Related Concept Videos
Cause and Effect
Anxiety: Overview
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
Nightmares and Night Terrors
Nightmares often...
Preparedness and Phobias
Piaget's Stage 1 of Cognitive Development
Exploration...
Panic Disorder

