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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 1, 2026

Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Published on: April 22, 2015

Sleep and autism spectrum disorders.

Ann M Reynolds¹, Beth A Malow

¹Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA. reynolds.ann@tchden.org

Pediatric Clinics of North America

|May 24, 2011

Summary

Sleep disorders are common in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Addressing these sleep issues can improve sleep quality and reduce behavioral problems and parental stress.

Area of Science:

Pediatric Sleep Medicine
Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Background:

Sleep disorders frequently affect children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
These sleep disturbances significantly impact daily functioning and increase parental stress levels.
The multifactorial nature of these sleep concerns necessitates a thorough diagnostic approach.

Purpose of the Study:

To underscore the importance of identifying and treating sleep disorders in children with ASD.
To highlight the potential benefits of effective sleep management on daytime behavior and parental well-being.
To emphasize the need for further research into the underlying causes of sleep problems in this population.

Main Methods:

This study synthesizes current knowledge on sleep disorders in children with ASD.

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It reviews the diagnostic cornerstone: establishing the multifactorial causes of sleep concerns.

The focus is on the impact of identification and treatment strategies.

Main Results:

Effective treatment of sleep disorders can lead to consolidated sleep, faster sleep onset, and reduced night waking.
Improvements in sleep patterns positively influence daytime behavior in children with ASD.
Addressing sleep issues can significantly alleviate parental stress.

Conclusions:

Identifying and treating sleep disorders is crucial for improving outcomes in children with ASD.
Understanding the specific causes of sleep problems is essential for developing targeted and effective interventions.
Further research is paramount to advance the management of sleep disorders in this vulnerable group.