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Optimizing a Transdiagnostic Sleep and Circadian Intervention for Autistic Young Adults: A Qualitative Study Using an
Kristina P Lenker1, Allison G Harvey2, Amanda L Richdale3
1Sleep Research & Treatment Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.
Behavioral Sleep Medicine
|April 18, 2026
Summary
Autistic adults experience significant sleep and circadian issues. This study adapted an intervention (TranS-C) based on feedback from autistic individuals, caregivers, and clinicians to improve treatment effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Sleep Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Autistic adults report widespread sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances.
- These issues represent a significant, unmet public health need.
- Existing sleep interventions are rarely tailored for autistic individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To gather perspectives from autistic adults, caregivers, and clinicians.
- To inform the adaptation of an evidence-based transdiagnostic sleep intervention for autistic adults.
- To enhance the feasibility and effectiveness of sleep interventions in this population.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews.
- Interviewed 20 autistic young adults, 20 caregivers, and 20 clinicians.
- Guided adaptations of the Transdiagnostic Intervention for Sleep and Circadian Dysfunction (TranS-C).
Main Results:
- Confirmed the need for transdiagnostic approaches to address multidimensional sleep problems in autistic adults.
- Identified stakeholder convergence and divergence on themes related to intervention delivery and adherence.
- Informed specific content adaptations (e.g., memory aids, simplified materials) and delivery enhancements (e.g., telehealth, provider training).
Conclusions:
- Autism-related sleep and circadian problems are complex, requiring transdiagnostic interventions.
- Adaptations to intervention content and delivery are crucial for improving adherence and addressing unique autistic needs.
- Tailored interventions can better support autistic adults across the lifespan.
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