619 Electronic Media Use and Sleep Among Children in Foster Care with Anxiety

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Electronic media (EM) use has long been associated with poor sleep in children. Children’s use of EM may also be related to emotional distress – anxiety being one of the more prevalent issues, which has been tied to sleep-related problems as well (e.g., Fors & Barch, 2019; Alfano et al., 2007). Children in foster care have often been victims of trauma, which can lead to significant emotional and sleep difficulties (e.g., Kovachy et al., 2013). The Fostering Sleep study examined the association between EM use and sleep among children in foster care; and the additional influence of anxiety. Methods Participants were caregivers of foster care children recruited from private Facebook foster care support groups across the United States. The study used a cross-sectional design examining sleep patterns and behaviors, EM use and mental health among children in foster care. An online survey, hosted by Qualtrics, was distributed to caregivers via Facebook. The data of 443 foster care children between the ages of four and 11 (M=6.37, SD=2.21) were included in the analyses. Results Children in foster care using EM at bedtime go to bed later than those who are not (p<.001), and their sleep quality was better than those who did not use EM around bedtime (p<0.01). Additionally, 33.3% reported anxiety as a primary diagnosis by a mental health professional. Children without anxiety as their primary diagnosis were found to be more likely to use EM around bedtime (p=.038). Conclusion This preliminary analysis indicates the prevalence of EM use close to bedtime may not necessarily be detrimental to sleep for this population; perhaps activities such as watching one’s favorite programming or talking to a loved one online can be comforting and therefore helpful to sleep onset (Eggermont & Van den Bulck, 2006). However, examination of other factors such as type of technology, content of media, and duration of use is warranted. Moreover, children with anxiety as a primary diagnosis may be using less EM at bedtime because EM use may trigger symptoms of anxiety (i.e., Fors & Barch, 2019). Support (if any):