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Autism Spectrum Disorder and Sleep

Kyle P Johnson1, Paria Zarrinnegar1

  • 1Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Mailcode: DC-7P, 3181 Southwest Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America
|November 23, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have high rates of sleep disturbances like insomnia. Effective treatments include behavioral interventions, parental education, and melatonin.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Sleep Medicine
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

  • Sleep disturbances, especially insomnia, are prevalent in youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), exceeding general population rates.
  • Sleep deprivation in this population is linked to increased daytime behavioral issues and parental stress.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the epidemiology of sleep disturbances in children and adolescents with ASD.
  • To summarize the latest evidence-based treatment options for sleep problems in this demographic.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epidemiological studies on sleep disturbances in ASD.
  • Synthesis of current research on treatment efficacy for sleep issues in youth with ASD.

Main Results:

  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with significantly higher incidences of sleep disturbances, including insomnia.
  • Behavioral interventions, parental education, and melatonin demonstrate effectiveness in managing sleep problems.

Conclusions:

  • Sleep disturbances are a critical concern for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
  • A multi-faceted approach involving behavioral strategies, parent support, and pharmacological options like melatonin is recommended for treatment.

Keywords:
AutismBehavioralChildrenInsomniaMelatoninPediatricSleep

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