Work

Sleep Matters: Attentional and Behavioral Outcomes among Preschool Age Children of Mothers with Depression

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the association between sleep duration and attentional and behavioral outcomes in preschool children of mothers with depression, a group at elevated developmental risk. Exploring data from the Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study (N = 2945; female = 48%), we examine whether longer sleep durations are associated with reduced attentional and behavioral issues in these preschoolers from low-income, high-risk families. Specifically, we focus on attentional, externalizing, and internalizing problems. Our analysis employs both linear and non-linear models to parse the intricacies of sleep’s role on child behavior. Findings suggest that adequate sleep may play a key role in mitigating the negative developmental impacts of maternal depression. These insights pave the way for targeted interventions that could bolster child development through improved sleep practices.

Source: Journal of Child and Family Studies

DOI: 10.1007/s10826-025-03152-6

Authors: S. B. Selman, B. F. Gurel, J. E. Dilworth-Bart

Institutions: University of Wisconsin–Madison, Boğaziçi University

Language: English

Topic: Sleep and related disorders

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,190