Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 18, 2026
08:20
Measuring Neural Mechanisms Underlying Sleep-Dependent Memory Consolidation During Naps in Early Childhood
Published on: October 2, 2019
Children's sleep and adjustment: a residualized change analysis
Mona El-Sheikh1, Kristen L Bub, Ryan J Kelly
1Human Development and Family Studies, 203, Spidle Hall, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849-5214, USA. elshemm@auburn.edu
Developmental Psychology
|October 3, 2012
Summary
Children's persistent sleep problems are linked to increased depression and anxiety symptoms over time. These effects are more significant for girls and children from disadvantaged backgrounds, emphasizing sleep's role in development.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Sleep Science
Background:
- Childhood mental health is a growing concern.
- Longitudinal studies on sleep and adjustment are limited.
- Sociocultural factors may influence sleep-adjustment links.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine longitudinal associations between children's sleep and mental health.
- To investigate if initial sleep problems and worsening sleep predict adjustment issues.
- To explore demographic moderators of these associations.
Main Methods:
- A 3-wave longitudinal study with 1-year intervals.
- Participants: 251 diverse children (initially 8.23 years old).
- Assessed sleep/wake problems, sleepiness, depression, anxiety, and anger/aggression.
Main Results:
- Higher initial sleep problems and increases in problems predicted higher depression and anxiety.
- These links were stronger for girls, African American children, and those from lower SES backgrounds.
- Sleep/wake issues and sleepiness were significant predictors of adjustment outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Adequate sleep is crucial for children's healthy development and adjustment.
- Sleep problems represent a risk factor for internalizing symptoms in children.
- Interventions should consider sleep and sociocultural contexts for at-risk youth.
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