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Insomnias of childhood and adolescence

G J Reid1, E D Huntley, D S Lewin

  • 1Departments of Psychology, Family Medicine, and Paediatrics, Psychology and Family Medicine, The University of Western Ontario, Westminster Hall, London, Ontario N6A3K7, Canada.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America
|October 20, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Childhood insomnias (CI) are varied sleep issues in children and adolescents. This review covers their causes, correlates, and effective treatment approaches for better sleep health.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Sleep Medicine
  • Developmental Psychology

Background:

  • Childhood insomnias (CI) encompass diverse sleep disorders affecting individuals up to age 20.
  • The origins of CI are not well understood and likely multifactorial.
  • Effective treatments exist for CI in younger children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review common causes and correlates of childhood insomnias within a developmental framework.
  • To present a practical guide for evaluating and treating sleep problems in children and adolescents.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on developmental aspects of childhood insomnias.
  • Synthesis of current understanding regarding CI etiology and associated factors.
  • Outline of a clinical approach to CI assessment and management.

Main Results:

  • CI presents heterogeneously across the first two decades of life.
  • Understanding developmental trajectories is key to addressing CI.
  • Evidence supports the efficacy of certain treatments, particularly in younger populations.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood insomnias require a developmental perspective for accurate understanding.
  • A structured approach aids in the evaluation and treatment of pediatric sleep issues.
  • Further research into the heterogeneous origins of CI is warranted.

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