A-169 Sleep in Children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD)

Abstract

Objective Sleep problems in children with FASD have not been well characterized. This study predicts that children with FASD and sleep problems will have more attention [Conner’s Continuous Performance Test (CPT)] and executive functioning [Brief Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning (BRIEF)] difficulties. Methods Data from 46 children (ages 3–14) diagnosed with an Alcohol Related Neurobehavioral Disorder whose parents completed the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSQ) were reviewed. The sample was divided into two groups: low-sleep (T-score < 64) and high-sleep (T-score > 65) using the SDSQ Disorders of Initiating and Maintaining Sleep subscale. Results The FASD clinical population showed more sleep problems than average, t(45) = 6.64, p < 001. Children with high levels of sleep problems showed significantly higher ratings of inhibition than children with low sleep problems on the BRIEF Inhibit Scale, t(35) = −2.095, p = .043). They also showed a higher Global Executive Composite t(35) = −2.033, p = .05, although this finding may be influenced by elevations on the Inhibit Scale. Conclusion In conclusion, although parents are reporting more inhibition in daily life, there are no differences on neuropsychological measures suggesting that sleep difficulties do not lead to additional impairment in attention and executive functioning. Findings suggest that children with FASD have difficulties with attention and executive functioning regardless of sleep problems.