Sleep disruption is an inherent behavioral feature in childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, known as ADHD. Sleep disorders in children with ADHD can be enhanced by medication side effects, as well as psychiatric comorbidities. Such a correlation between sleep problems, AHHD, medication consumption, and psychiatric comorbidities is a complex and multidirectional issue. Inadequate sleep patterns can also hurt cognitive tasks. Therefore, Schneider, Lam & Mahone (2015) examine parent-reported sleep disturbances and their relationship to neuropsychological function in young children both with and without ADHD. Their main findings conclude that the relationship between sleep patterns and c is still not clear. Preschool children tend to relate the sleep disturbance with greater behavioral disturbance rather than cognitive disorders. With that said, research results prove that having trouble with sleep in children with ADHD does not correlate with neuropsychological performance on direct evaluation.
In my opinion, such associations between ADHD and neuropsychological function can be explained by the work of brain regions engaged in the regulation of arousal and sensitivity to insomnia, which is also involved in ADHD. Based on the research findings, the correlation between sleeping routine, ADHD symptoms, and neurobehavioral function might indicate different patterns. However, it is perceived as a “function of the chronicity of disordered sleep” or increased usage of stimulants (Schneider et al., 2015, p. 503). By investigating more research on this topic, I am inclined to agree with the following study about the uncertain results and the influence of inaccurate parents’ ratings of sleep problems in particular. I believe that neuropsychological dysfunction is more related to ADHD symptomatology, including lack of attention or hyperactivity disorder, instead of sleep disturbance. To conclude, ADHD is commonly attributed to sleep disturbances and is considered a complex two-way issue. It is crucial to understand such correlations for adequately assessing and guiding patients with ADHD and provide more research to design medical or nonmedical interventions that enhance sleep patterns and, thus, improve ADHD symptoms.
Reference
Schneider, H. E., Lam, J. C., & Mahone, E. M. (2015). Sleep disturbance and neuropsychological function in young children with ADHD. Child Neuropsychology, 22(4), 493–506.