Autism Spectrum Disorder Phenotypes Based on Sleep Dimensions and Core Autism Symptoms.

This was a cross-sectional analysis of existing records, so it cannot show that sleep problems cause autism symptoms, ADHD symptoms, or academic difficulties. Sleep was rated by parents, not measured with sleep tests or child self-report, so older children's sleep problems may have been missed. The sample was mostly white and male and came from one psychiatric diagnostic clinic, so the groups may not fit all communities or all autistic children. Many children had missing data on temperament, pregnancy complications, and some cognitive or achievement tests, and the groups were defined by statistical patterns that need replication. The study did not test any therapy, so it cannot say which sleep intervention would help.

The paper states that the study was funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration. No author conflict-of-interest declaration appears in the supplied text.

Do not read these classes as proof that sleep treatment will improve autism symptoms, attention, or school work. The study grouped existing parent ratings and test scores at one time and did not test any treatment.