Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 1, 2026
09:03
Eye Tracking Young Children with Autism
Published on: March 27, 2012
Sleep in children with autism spectrum disorders
1Kyle P. Johnson, MD Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, DC-7P, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA. johnsoky@ohsu.edu.
Current Treatment Options in Neurology
|September 11, 2008
Summary
Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often experience insomnia. Treatment should address the cause, prioritizing behavioral methods before medication, to improve sleep and daily functioning.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are frequently associated with significant sleep disturbances, predominantly insomnia.
- Sleep problems in children with ASD can be multifactorial, necessitating a thorough etiological assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the common sleep problems in children with ASD.
- To discuss available treatment options for sleep disorders in this population.
- To emphasize the importance of identifying and treating sleep disorders for improved daytime functioning and family well-being.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on sleep disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders.
- Discussion of diagnostic considerations, including referral for conditions like obstructive sleep apnea.
- Overview of treatment modalities, including behavioral interventions and pharmacotherapy.
Main Results:
- Insomnia is the most common sleep problem in children with ASD.
- A multifactorial etiology often underlies sleep disturbances in this population.
- Referral to a sleep specialist is indicated for specific conditions like suspected obstructive sleep apnea.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of sleep disorders in children with ASD requires understanding the underlying causes.
- Behavioral interventions should be the first line of treatment for insomnia.
- Successful treatment of sleep disorders can lead to improvements in daytime behavior and overall family functioning.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:15REM Sleep Behavior Disorder
REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) is a sleep disorder characterized by the absence of muscle paralysis that normally occurs during the REM phase of sleep. This absence allows individuals to physically act out their dreams, which are often vivid and disturbing. Common behaviors exhibited during episodes include kicking, punching, and yelling. These actions can be dangerous, potentially leading to injuries for the person with RBD or their bed partner.
RBD is significantly associated with...
RBD is significantly associated with...
01:18Nightmares and Night Terrors
Nightmares and night terrors represent two distinct types of sleep disturbances that differ in timing, characteristics, and the sleeper's recall of the event. Nightmares are vivid, disturbing dreams that usually awaken the sleeper from REM sleep, a stage of sleep where brain activity is high, and dreams are most frequent. Upon awakening, individuals often have detailed recollections of their nightmares, which can include themes of threats to survival, security, or self-esteem.
Nightmares often...
Nightmares often...
01:24Sleep-Wake Cycles
Sleep is an essential physiological process vital to maintaining overall well-being. The reticular activating system (RAS), a network of neurons in the brainstem, regulates wakefulness and sleep. While it may seem passive, sleep consists of distinct cycles, each with its unique characteristics and functions. Two key sleep phases are non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM).
NREM Sleep
NREM sleep comprises four progressive stages that seamlessly merge:
NREM Sleep
NREM sleep comprises four progressive stages that seamlessly merge:
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
01:24Substance Use Disorders Affecting Sleep
Substance use disorders involve a pattern of using drugs more extensively than intended and continuing use despite harmful consequences. This includes legal substances like alcohol and nicotine, as well as illegal drugs. These disorders often involve both physical and psychological dependence, reflecting compulsive use of substances that significantly alter thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, contributing to a major public health issue.
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...
Understanding the concepts of physical dependence,...