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Parental sleep concerns in autism spectrum disorders: variations from childhood to adolescence

Suzanne E Goldman1, Amanda L Richdale, Traci Clemons

  • 1Department of Neurology-Sleep Disorders Program, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21st Avenue South, Room AA0232B, Nashville, TN 37232-2551, USA. suzanne.e.goldman@vanderbilt.edu

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|May 4, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Sleep issues in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) vary by age. While younger children experience bedtime resistance and anxiety, older children and adolescents face delayed sleep onset and daytime sleepiness, indicating persistent challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Pediatric Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • Sleep disturbances are common in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
  • Understanding age-specific sleep challenges is crucial for effective intervention in ASD populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare sleep problems between younger children (toddlers/young children) and older children/adolescents with ASD.
  • To identify age-related differences in the types of sleep issues experienced by individuals with ASD.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 1,859 children diagnosed with ASD.
  • Sleep habits were assessed using the validated Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire.
  • Statistical analysis was performed to compare sleep problem prevalence and characteristics across different age groups.

Main Results:

  • Significant sleep problems were reported across all age groups within the ASD cohort.
  • Adolescents and older children with ASD exhibited higher rates of delayed sleep onset, reduced sleep duration, and daytime sleepiness.
  • Younger children with ASD were more prone to bedtime resistance, sleep anxiety, parasomnias, and night wakings.

Conclusions:

  • Sleep problems are a persistent issue for individuals with ASD, extending into adolescence.
  • The specific nature of sleep disturbances evolves with age in ASD, necessitating tailored clinical approaches.
  • Healthcare providers should consider age-specific sleep interventions for children and adolescents with ASD throughout their developmental trajectory.

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