Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 27, 2026

Quantitative Assessment of Cortical Auditory-tactile Processing in Children with Disabilities
Published on: January 29, 2014
Sleep Problems in Children With Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities: A Brief Report
Maria Valicenti-McDermott1, Katharine Lawson1, Kathryn Hottinger1
11 RFK Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
Abstract:
Sleep problems in children with autism and the association with child behavioral problems was studied in an ethnically diverse population, in a cross-sectional study with structured interview. Sample included 50 families of children with autism and 50 families of children with other developmental disabilities, matched by age/gender. Interview included Child Sleep Habits Questionnaire and Aberrant Behavior Checklist. In this ethnically diverse sample, at least 78% of families of children with autism reported significant sleep problems compared to 34% of families of children with other developmental disabilities. Specifically, children with autism reported more frequent bedtime resistance, sleep anxiety, and night wakings than children with other developmental disabilities. Across groups, sleep problems were related to child behavioral difficulties, including irritability and hyperactivity, although this association did not reach significance for the group with autism. Specifics in terms of the nature of sleep disorders will help our understanding and design of effective treatment options.
Related Concept Videos
Intellectual Disability
Learning Disabilities
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Autism Spectrum Disorder
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Insufficient Sleep and Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation is a more severe form of sleep loss...
Introduction to Developmental Psychology
Stages of Sleep
Before sleep begins, in wakefulness, the brain exhibits primarily beta waves, which are high in frequency and low in amplitude, indicating alertness...

