Volume 7, Issue 1 (Vol 7, No 1 2026)
2026, 7(1): 20-33 |
Back to browse issues page
Ethics code: IR.IAU.SRB.REC.1401.146
Download citation:
BibTeX | RIS | EndNote | Medlars | ProCite | Reference Manager | RefWorks
Send citation to:
BibTeX | RIS | EndNote | Medlars | ProCite | Reference Manager | RefWorks
Send citation to:
Benadaki S D, Vakili S, Kashani Vahid L. (2026). Prediction of Aggression Based on Sleep Problems and Executive Functions in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Childhood Health and Education. 7(1), 20-33. doi:10.32598/JECHE.7.1.56.6
URL: http://jeche.ir/article-1-383-en.html
URL: http://jeche.ir/article-1-383-en.html
1- Department of Psychology and Education of Exceptional Children, SR.C., Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract: (629 Views)
Background and Aim Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental condition associated with aggression, sleep problems, and impaired executive functioning. This study aimed to predict aggression based on sleep problems and executive functions in children with ASD in Tehran, Iran.
Research Methods In this descriptive-correlational study during 2021-2022, 118 children with ASD were selected via convenience sampling from three treatment centers in Tehran. Data were collected using the Child Aggression Questionnaire (Parent Form), Owens et al.’s Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ), and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). Data were analyzed using a correlation test and multiple regression analysis in SPSS software, version 23.
Results Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between aggression and sleep problems, and a significant negative relationship between aggression and executive functions. Multiple regression results indicated that working memory (β=−0.111, P<0.05), emotional control (β=−0.120, P<0.05), inhibition (β=−0.128, P<0.05), resistance to sleep (β=0.132, P<0.05), nighttime awakenings (β=0.140, P<0.05), sleep anxiety (β=0.179, P<0.05), and sleep disorganization (β=0.350, P<0.05)
Conclusion Sleep problems significantly exacerbate aggression in children with ASD by negatively affecting cognitive functions. Therefore, effective interventions should simultaneously target sleep hygiene and executive function enhancement.
Research Methods In this descriptive-correlational study during 2021-2022, 118 children with ASD were selected via convenience sampling from three treatment centers in Tehran. Data were collected using the Child Aggression Questionnaire (Parent Form), Owens et al.’s Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ), and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). Data were analyzed using a correlation test and multiple regression analysis in SPSS software, version 23.
Results Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship between aggression and sleep problems, and a significant negative relationship between aggression and executive functions. Multiple regression results indicated that working memory (β=−0.111, P<0.05), emotional control (β=−0.120, P<0.05), inhibition (β=−0.128, P<0.05), resistance to sleep (β=0.132, P<0.05), nighttime awakenings (β=0.140, P<0.05), sleep anxiety (β=0.179, P<0.05), and sleep disorganization (β=0.350, P<0.05)
Conclusion Sleep problems significantly exacerbate aggression in children with ASD by negatively affecting cognitive functions. Therefore, effective interventions should simultaneously target sleep hygiene and executive function enhancement.
Type of Study: Applicable |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2025/11/7 | Accepted: 2026/03/21 | Published: 2026/03/21
Received: 2025/11/7 | Accepted: 2026/03/21 | Published: 2026/03/21
Send email to the article author
| Rights and permissions | |
 |
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. |
