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Bedtime problems and night wakings: treatment of behavioral insomnia of childhood

Melisa Moore1

  • 1Melisa Moore, Sleep Center, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 34th Street and Civic Center Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. melisamoore@gmail.com

Journal of Clinical Psychology
|September 25, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Behavioral insomnia of childhood (BIC) affects many young children, causing sleep issues. Behavioral treatments like extinction and positive routines effectively help children develop healthy sleep habits and independence.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Sleep Medicine
  • Child Psychology

Background:

  • Bedtime problems and frequent night wakings affect 20-30% of young children.
  • These sleep issues are classified as behavioral insomnia of childhood (BIC).
  • Insufficient sleep from BIC can lead to dysfunction in multiple child domains.

Observation:

  • Behavioral treatments, including extinction and positive routines, are effective for BIC.
  • Successful treatment requires detailed assessment and collaborative, family-centered planning.
  • Ongoing support between sessions is crucial for treatment success.

Findings:

  • Behavioral interventions demonstrate efficacy in treating childhood sleep problems.
  • Graduated and standard extinction methods can teach independent sleep skills.
  • A case study highlights successful treatment of BIC in a 3-year-old.

Implications:

  • Effective behavioral interventions can improve sleep in infants and toddlers.
  • Addressing BIC promotes healthy sleep habits and reduces child dysfunction.
  • Family-centered approaches enhance treatment adherence and outcomes for childhood sleep disorders.

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