P.085 The relationship between sleep and behavior in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Background: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is associated with long-term reduced quality of life and impaired functioning. ADHD is commonly associated with sleep disturbances that can contribute to many difficulties in a child’s life. This study aims to elucidate this complex relationship by utilizing a subset of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) database. Methods: The population included a group of children with ADHD age 10-13 years (n=212) and a matched typically developing (TD) group (n=212). Sleep data was obtained through Fitbit actigraphy measures, and the Parent Sleep Disturbance Scale (SDS). Behavioural and emotional subscores were obtained from the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL). Results: There were no significant correlations between the actigraphy and SDS sleep data. SDS sleep data were significantly different between ADHD and control groups, while actigraphy data was not. Sleep latency (measured by actigraphy) and 3 out of 6 of the SDS subscores were significantly related to behavioural scores. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that sleep may not be an important mediator of behaviour and emotional responses in children with ADHD. Future studies should explore both influences on sleep parameters as well as behaviour and other measures important to families.