Sleep in Children With Autism and Intellectual Disability

Applied Behavior Analysis focusing on nocturnal awakenings. It starts with identification of target behaviors and goals. A functional analysis is conducted to analyze the underlying function of a behavior in connection to the problem. A treatment plan is formulated, including strategies to achieve the goals, and methods to evaluate. Families receive education sleep hygiene. Adaptations focus on antecedents and consequences, with an emphasis on positive reinforcement of favorable behaviors. Various components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy may be applicable. These include changes in sleep environment, stimulus control, bedtime routines with visual support and prompting. Sleep restriction and bedtime fading are included. Modified extinction techniques with parental presence can be applied, gradually phasing out parental immediate presence. The intervention continues until goals are achieved or for a maximum of 8 sessions (each lasting up to 60 minutes) spread over 8 weeks.