The Relationship Between Sleep and Internalizing Problems Among Canadian Adolescents

Sophia Pereira Nunes, The University of Western Ontario

Abstract

This study used data from the National Longitudinal Study of Children and Youth to examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships between self-reported sleep duration, insomnia (difficulties falling asleep) and internalizing problems in adolescents from age 10 to 15. Relevant family and social context variables were controlled for in multivariable analyses and family functioning was assessed as a potential effect modifier. Cross-sectional multivariable linear regression analyses of sleep duration and internalizing problems revealed no statistical association. However, difficulties sleeping and concurrent internalizing problems were positively associated at ages 12/13 in females (b= 1.77[0.94, 2.61], R²=0.169)and males (b=1.18[0.36, 2.01], R²=0.157). Difficulties sleeping at age 12/13 also predicted future internalizing problems in females (b=0.70[0.28,1.67],R²=0.187) and males (b=0.94[0.05,1.84], R²=0.301), while controlling for initial internalizing symptoms. Family functioning was found to moderate the relationship between sleep duration and internalizing at age 12 /13. Findings highlight the importance of adequate sleep for adolescents’ optimal mental health.