Correlates and Risk Markers for Sleep Disturbance in Participants of the Autism Treatment Network

Abstract

We explored possible cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and physiological risk markers for sleep disturbance in children with autism spectrum disorders. Data from 1,583 children in the Autism Treatment Network were analyzed. Approximately 45 potential predictors were analyzed using hierarchical regression modeling. As medication could confound findings, it was included in the analyses as a covariate. Results revealed that anxiety, autism symptom severity, sensory sensitivities, and GI problems were associated with sleep disturbance. IQ positively predicted sleep disturbance, and children with Asperger's Disorder were more vulnerable than others. The amount of variance in sleep outcomes explained by predictor variables was modest (i.e., R (2) from .104 to .201). Predictor variables were evaluated in the context of a bidirectional theoretical framework.

Sleep Problems in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Literature Review

“…Hollway et al (2013) found that there were more sleep problems in children who had regressed that those who had no developmental regression. Hansen et al (2008) reported no significant differences were found between the children with or without regression in terms of sleep problems.…”

“…Therefore the fewer hours slept, the more severe were the symptoms of autism. Hollway et al (2013) found that the core symptoms of autism and autism subtype predicted sleep quality in children with ASD.…”

“…It has also been used for younger children from the age of 2 onwards (Goodlin-Jones., Sitnick., et al, 2008). It has recently been administered in Hollway, Aman, and Butter (2013) and Mannion et al (2013). The FISH provides a quantitative scale of sleep habits, including bedtime routine, sleep environment and parental interactions.…”

“…It was reported that children with moderate to severe sleep problems had greater behavior difficulties than those with mild to moderate sleep problems. Sleep problems in autism spectrum disorder In Hollway et al (2013), the authors commented that they have data in preparation examining the relationship between sleep problems and aggression.…”

“…Therefore, this shows the importance of future research examining internalizing behavior as part of comorbid psychopathology. Hollway et al (2013) found that anxiety was associated with sleep disturbances in data analysed from the Autism Treatment Network (ATN). Malow et al (2006) found that anxious/depressed behavior and affective problems correlated with sleep latency.…”