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Sleep Problems in Autism Spectrum Disorder

Navjot Sidhu1, Zoe Wong2, Amanda E Bennett3

  • 1Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3550 Market Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.

Pediatric Clinics of North America
|February 29, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Sleep problems affect 40-80% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), worsening core symptoms and quality of life. Behavioral interventions and caregiver training are key treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Sleep Medicine

Background:

  • High prevalence of sleep disorders in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affecting 40-80% of children.
  • Sleep issues include insomnia, parasomnias, and circadian rhythm disorders.
  • Sleep problems negatively impact core ASD symptoms and overall quality of life for children and caregivers.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the significant prevalence and impact of sleep problems in children with ASD.
  • To emphasize the need for regular screening and evaluation of sleep disorders in this population.
  • To underscore the importance of behavioral interventions for managing sleep issues in neurodiverse youth.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review on sleep disorders in autism spectrum disorder.
  • Analysis of prevalence rates and common sleep disorder types.
  • Discussion of the bidirectional relationship between sleep problems and ASD symptoms.

Main Results:

  • Sleep problems are highly prevalent in children with ASD, ranging from 40% to 80%.
  • Common sleep disorders identified include insomnia, parasomnias, and circadian rhythm disorders.
  • Sleep disturbances exacerbate core ASD symptoms and negatively affect patient and caregiver well-being.

Conclusions:

  • Regular screening for sleep problems is essential for all children with autism.
  • Evaluation for co-occurring medical conditions contributing to sleep issues is recommended.
  • Behavioral interventions, including caregiver training, are the primary treatment for sleep disorders in children with ASD.

Keywords:
AssessmentAutism spectrum disorderChildrenImpactPrevalenceSleep disorders/disturbancesTreatment

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