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Sleep problems and daytime problem behaviours in children with intellectual disability.
R Didden1, H Korzilius, B van Aperlo
1University of Nijmegen and De Lathmer, Department of Special Education, Wilp, the Netherlands. R.Didden@ped.kun.nl
Journal of Intellectual Disability Research : JIDR
|October 2, 2002
Summary
Sleep problems affect over 16% of children with intellectual disability (ID). These issues are linked to more severe ID, epilepsy, and behavioral challenges, impacting daily functioning.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Child Psychology
Background:
- Sleep disturbances are prevalent in children with intellectual disability (ID).
- Understanding these sleep issues is crucial for improving quality of life for affected children and their families.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of severe sleep problems in children with intellectual disability (ID).
- To investigate the relationship between severe sleep problems and child/family variables in this population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study surveyed 286 children with mild to profound ID living at home in the Netherlands.
- Data on sleep behaviors, family factors, and child demographics were collected via questionnaires.
Main Results:
- 16.1% of children experienced at least one severe sleep problem (settling, night waking, early waking).
- Severe sleep problems correlated with higher ID severity, medication use, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, younger age, daytime drowsiness, and increased problem behaviors like aggression and hyperactivity.
Conclusions:
- Findings highlight the significant impact of sleep problems on children with ID.
- Results provide a basis for targeted assessment and treatment strategies for sleep disturbances in this vulnerable group.