61st Annual Meeting

October 18 - 25, 2014

Special Interest Study Group 9 (sold out)

Pediatric Sleep Disorders

Children and adolescents frequently experience difficulties with sleep, and child and adolescent psychiatrists are routinely asked to provide guidance to their patients about sleep. The effects of inadequate and disrupted sleep can result in symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can easily be mistaken for ADHD and may contribute to worsening anxiety, mood, and disruptive behavior disorders. Conversely, these disorders and their pharmacological treatments often cause significant impairments in sleep, as do autism spectrum and psychotic disorders.  This SIG addresses common concerns related to sleep as well as how AACAP members can better treat their patients suffering from sleep disturbances. Sleep debt is defined, assessment tools identified, and plans will be made for future assessment, education, and advocacy efforts.