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Sleep Disturbances and Behavioral Problems in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder-A Systematic
Cristina Tecar1, Lacramioara Eliza Chiperi2, Bianca Elena Iftimie3
1RoNeuro Institute for Neurological Research and Diagnostic, 400364 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
Clinics and Practice
|November 26, 2025
Summary
Sleep problems in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are linked to behavioral issues like aggression and hyperactivity. Addressing sleep disturbances may improve behavior and development in children with ASD.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Sleep disturbances affect up to 83% of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- These sleep issues significantly impact quality of life and contribute to behavioral dysregulation.
- Understanding the link between sleep and behavior is crucial for effective ASD management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the association between sleep problems and behavioral outcomes in individuals with ASD.
- To synthesize evidence from studies published between 2010 and 2024.
- To identify specific sleep disturbances linked to behavioral difficulties in ASD.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 26 studies.
- Inclusion of participants aged 2 to 18 years with ASD.
- Analysis of studies using both subjective and objective sleep measures (actigraphy, polysomnography).
Main Results:
- Consistent associations found between sleep-onset insomnia, night walking, bedtime resistance, and behavioral problems (aggression, hyperactivity, emotional dysregulation).
- Chronic sleep problems linked to internalizing symptoms and worsening core ASD features.
- Objective sleep measures confirmed disruptions in sleep architecture correlating with behavioral severity.
Conclusions:
- Routine sleep evaluation is essential in clinical care for ASD.
- Targeted sleep interventions show potential for reducing behavioral problems in ASD.
- Improving sleep may enhance developmental outcomes in children with autism spectrum disorder.
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