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Self-reported sleep patterns, sleep problems, and behavioral problems among school children aged 8-11 years
K Hoedlmoser1, G Kloesch, A Wiater
1Department of Psychology, Division of Physiological Psychology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg.
Summary
Sleep problems are common in 8- to 11-year-old children and significantly impact behavior and daytime alertness. Addressing these sleep issues is crucial for overall child well-being.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Child Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Sleep patterns and behavioral issues in school-aged children are critical determinants of overall health.
- Prevalence of sleep problems and their association with behavioral outcomes requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sleep patterns, sleep problems, and behavioral problems in 8- to 11-year-old children.
- To explore the relationship between sleep disturbances, daytime sleepiness, and behavioral issues.
Main Methods:
- A self-report questionnaire assessing sleep and behavior was administered to 330 fourth-grade students in Salzburg, Austria.
- Data analysis focused on identifying common sleep problems, their prevalence, and associations with behavioral symptoms and daytime sleepiness.
Main Results:
- Children aged 8-11 reported approximately 10 hours of sleep; common issues included dry mouth, sleep onset delay, and bedtime resistance.
- Significant associations were found between pre-sleep screen time and frightful dreams, and between sleep problems and increased behavioral issues/daytime sleepiness.
- Daytime sleepiness, characterized by difficulty waking and getting out of bed, was prevalent, though children in Salzburg reported less tiredness during schoolwork compared to other nationalities.
Conclusions:
- Self-reported sleep problems are highly prevalent in 8- to 11-year-old children.
- A strong link exists between sleep disorders and behavioral problems in this age group.
- Routine screening, diagnosis, and treatment of sleep disorders in school children are recommended.
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