Real-Life Exposure to Violence Disrupts a Child's Sleep Habits

June 13, 2012

Science Daily/American Academy of Sleep Medicine

When violence shatters a child's world, the torment can continue into their sleep, according to researchers in Cleveland. The impact is measurable and affected by the severity of the violence, and the effects can last over time.

The study, being presented June 12 at SLEEP 2012, shows how the severity of a violent event affects a child's quality and quantity of sleep. The more severe the violence, the more sleep is impacted. Trouble with nightmares and insomnia have long been associated with exposure to violence, but the Cleveland study found that characteristics of the violent act touch different aspects of the child's sleep.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/06/120613091043.htm