Sleep Problems in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Review.

Abstract

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by severe impairments in communication and social interactions, and the presence of restrictive and repetitive behaviours. In addition to these characteristic problem behaviours, sleep problems are common among the majority of children with an ASD and may reflect an additional component of the disorder’s phenotype, rather than a comorbid condition. Sleep disorders in this population place a lot of stress on the family, contributing to more severe stereotypic behaviours and hyperactivity during the daytime and disturbing the sleep of already-stressed family members. Objective: This poster seeks to summarize the research on the types of sleep problems seen in ASD, factors implicated in the aetiology of sleep problems, and how we might assess and treat these problems. Method: A literature review was conducted using the phrases “autism spectrum disorder” and “sleep problems.” Selected articles pertained to the study of prevalence, type, and predictors of sleep problems, their assessment, and their treatment. Results: Thirty-seven articles were reviewed. Children with ASD experience more sleep disorders than typically developing children and children with other neurodevelopmental disorders. Contributing factors include more severe symptomatology, neurobiology, and psychiatric conditions. Most behavioural and pharmacological treatments lack evidence in the literature. Conclusion: The impact of sleep problems in ASD on the family emphasizes the need for research on their effective treatment and the delineation of the role of sleep problems in ASD’s phenotype.