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The relationship between sleep problems and daytime behavior in children of different ages with autism spectrum

Darryn M Sikora1, Kyle Johnson, Traci Clemons

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA. darryn.sikora@providence.org

Pediatrics
|November 3, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who experience sleep problems show increased internalizing and externalizing behaviors and lower adaptive skills. Addressing sleep issues in ASD may improve daytime functioning.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Pediatric Sleep Medicine
  • Behavioral Psychology

Background:

  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social interaction and behavior.
  • Sleep problems are frequently reported in children with ASD, impacting their daily lives.
  • Understanding the link between sleep and behavior in ASD is crucial for effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between sleep problems and daytime behaviors in a large cohort of children with ASD.
  • To determine how different levels of sleep disturbance relate to behavioral and adaptive functioning in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 1193 children (aged 4-10 years) with ASD was analyzed.
  • Data collected using the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, and Child Behavior Checklist.
  • Multiple analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) was employed to assess sleep-behavior relationships.

Main Results:

  • Parent-reported sleep problems in children with ASD were negatively correlated with daytime behavior.
  • Children with ASD and sleep issues exhibited more internalizing/externalizing behaviors and poorer adaptive skills.
  • Moderate to severe sleep problems were linked to greater behavioral difficulties, but not consistently to adaptive functioning.

Conclusions:

  • Sleep problems in children with ASD are associated with increased behavioral challenges.
  • The relationship between sleep and adaptive skill acquisition in ASD may differ from its relationship with behavior.
  • Targeting sleep disturbances could be a key strategy for improving daytime functioning in children with ASD.
Abstract

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