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Exploring Behavioral Sleep Problems in Children With ADHD and Comorbid Autism Spectrum Disorder

Simone Thomas1,2, Kate Lycett2,3,4, Nicole Papadopoulos1

  • 11 Deakin University, Burwood, Australia.

Journal of Attention Disorders
|December 6, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Children with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) do not have more sleep problems than those with ADHD alone. Comorbidities and parent factors are linked to sleep issues in these children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Psychology
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are common neurodevelopmental conditions.
  • Sleep problems are frequently observed in children with ADHD.
  • The impact of comorbid ASD on sleep in children with ADHD requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare behavioral sleep problems in children with comorbid ADHD and ASD versus those with ADHD only.
  • To identify child and family factors associated with sleep problems in these pediatric populations.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study involving 392 children with ADHD (93 with comorbid ASD).
  • Data collected from parents via questionnaires, including the Child Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ).
  • Comparison between ADHD+ASD and ADHD-only groups.

Main Results:

  • Children with ADHD+ASD exhibited similar sleep problem levels and types compared to children with ADHD.
  • Internalizing and externalizing comorbidities were associated with sleep problems in both groups.
  • Parent age (in ADHD+ASD) and parent mental health (in ADHD) were linked to sleep problems.

Conclusions:

  • Comorbid ASD does not appear to exacerbate behavioral sleep problems in children with ADHD.
  • Co-occurring internalizing and externalizing comorbidities may indicate children at risk for sleep problems.
  • Identifying associated child and family factors is crucial for managing sleep issues.
Abstract

Keywords:
ADD/ADHDautism spectrum disorder (ASD)behavioral problemssleep disorderssleep quality

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