Clinical Report: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Sleep Disturbance Questionnaires

Overview

This study investigates the effectiveness of various sleep and wakefulness scales in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ) and Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC) were assessed for their diagnostic accuracy for sleep disorders in this population.

Background

Sleep disturbances are prevalent in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affecting a significant portion of this population. Understanding and assessing sleep issues in children with ASD is crucial for improving their quality of life.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• CSHQ and SDSC showed similar levels of diagnostic accuracy for sleep disorders in children with ASD.
• All questionnaires demonstrated discriminant validity and internal consistency (p<0.05, Cronbach’s alpha >0.60).
• ESS-CHAD exhibited a high level of agreement in assessing sleep issues.
• PDSS had a high negative predictive value.
• PSQ had a high positive predictive value.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider using a combination of the CSHQ and SDSC for comprehensive sleep assessments in children with ASD. In time-limited settings, the ESS-CHAD and PDSS may serve as effective rapid-screening alternatives.

Conclusion

The study supports the use of multiple questionnaires to assess sleep-wake disorders in children with ASD, enhancing the standardization of sleep assessments in clinical practice.

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