[Sleep and Psychological Functioning of Children and Adolescents - a Narrative Review]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Sleep Medicine
• Developmental Psychology
• Child and Adolescent Health

Background:

• Sufficient sleep is essential for optimal cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral functioning in children and adolescents.
• Sleep patterns are interconnected with family dynamics, particularly maternal sleep and psychological well-being.
• Longitudinal data indicate that childhood sleep issues predict later-life sleep and health problems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a narrative review of the associations between sleep patterns and psychological functioning in children and adolescents.
• To explore various factors influencing pediatric sleep, including family, screen time, physical activity, and specific health conditions.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review approach was employed, synthesizing existing literature on pediatric sleep and psychological functioning.
• The review selectively focused on topics chosen by the authors, including family influences, screen time, physical activity, and outcomes in specific pediatric populations.

Main Results:

• Poor sleep in childhood is linked to increased risk of future sleep disturbances and both somatic and psychological health issues.
• Excessive evening screen time correlates with shorter sleep duration and daytime sleepiness, potentially serving as a coping mechanism for anxiety.
• Regular physical activity is associated with improved sleep quality and psychological health outcomes in young individuals.
• While children with repaired clefts show no sleep disadvantages, very preterm children exhibit poorer sleep and psychological functioning compared to peers.

Conclusions:

• Sleep is a critical determinant of psychological functioning in children and adolescents, influenced by a complex interplay of factors.
• Interventions addressing sleep hygiene, screen time, and physical activity may positively impact pediatric mental and physical health.
• Early identification and management of sleep problems in childhood are vital for long-term well-being.