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Background <p>Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience sleep disturbances, which significantly influence not only the child but also the mother. This study aims to explore mothers’ experiences of their children’s sleep difficulties.</p> Methods <p>A qualitative phenomenology approach was employed; 13 mothers of children diagnosed with mild to moderate Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) were interviewed utilizing a semi-structured in-depth interview guideline. Colaizzi’s method was used to analyze the data and identify the sleep-related problems and solutions most likely to be experienced by the mothers who lived them.</p> Results <p>Three primary themes have emerged from the study: (1) unending nights of struggle and exhaustion, (2) exploring a path of knowledge and advice, and (3) Gradual adaptation and perceived improvement. Mothers were experiencing difficulties and often felt exhausted, as evidenced by a prolonged night of struggle and fatigue. Mothers utilized professional assistance and sleep management techniques over time, restoring balance and hope through adaptation, as evidenced by individuals who experienced improved sleep, reduced stress, greater emotional acceptance, and increased confidence.</p> Conclusions <p>Mothers of children with ASD expressed challenges in managing sleep disturbances, regularly experienced fatigue, and psychological distress. Children’s sleep improved with appropriate professional guidance and a variety of sleep interventions applied by mothers. Healthcare providers must raise awareness, provide individualized counseling, and advocate for supportive services to help mothers improve their children’s sleep quality and adaptation.</p>

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From restless nights to peaceful sleep: mothers’ lived experiences in dealing with sleep problems among children with autism spectrum disorder

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2026年5月5日

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  • Bhagawaty Kalikotay,
  • D. Rajeswari,
  • Helen Shaji J C

摘要

Background

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience sleep disturbances, which significantly influence not only the child but also the mother. This study aims to explore mothers’ experiences of their children’s sleep difficulties.

Methods

A qualitative phenomenology approach was employed; 13 mothers of children diagnosed with mild to moderate Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) were interviewed utilizing a semi-structured in-depth interview guideline. Colaizzi’s method was used to analyze the data and identify the sleep-related problems and solutions most likely to be experienced by the mothers who lived them.

Results

Three primary themes have emerged from the study: (1) unending nights of struggle and exhaustion, (2) exploring a path of knowledge and advice, and (3) Gradual adaptation and perceived improvement. Mothers were experiencing difficulties and often felt exhausted, as evidenced by a prolonged night of struggle and fatigue. Mothers utilized professional assistance and sleep management techniques over time, restoring balance and hope through adaptation, as evidenced by individuals who experienced improved sleep, reduced stress, greater emotional acceptance, and increased confidence.

Conclusions

Mothers of children with ASD expressed challenges in managing sleep disturbances, regularly experienced fatigue, and psychological distress. Children’s sleep improved with appropriate professional guidance and a variety of sleep interventions applied by mothers. Healthcare providers must raise awareness, provide individualized counseling, and advocate for supportive services to help mothers improve their children’s sleep quality and adaptation.