Authors:

Abstract

Introduction Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the commonest disorders seen in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry services. ADHD is associated with comorbid conditions such as emotional problems, aggression and oppositional behaviors, specific learning disorders and sleep problems

Aims The aim of the present study was to compare sleep problems in children with ADHD with that of a control group.

Methods Ninety patients aged 6-12 years diagnosed with ADHD were compared with controls (n=90) without ADHD. ADHD was diagnosed by a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist based on the DSM-IV criteria. Controls were selected from children attending the paediatric clinic. Childhood Sleep Questionnaire was used in assessment of sleep problems.

Results Children with ADHD experienced restless leg syndrome, fear of sleeping alone and darkness more than the control group. They sleep later and need more rituals for sleep.

Conclusions Children with ADHD should be assessed for sleep disturbances and offered interventions when needed.

DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sljpsyc.v4i1.5729

Sri Lanka Journal of Psychiatry Vol 4(1) June 2013 Page 14-17

Keywords: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD, sleep disturbances, learning disorders, Child and Adolescent