SLEEP DISORDERS AMONG INDIVIDUALS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES: A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS

Authors

  • Natasha Chichevska Jovanova PhD, Institute of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, North Macedonia
  • Valerija Ilieska Special Educator and Rehabilitator, Institute of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, North Macedonia
  • Olivera Rashikj Canevska PhD, Institute of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, North Macedonia
  • Nergis Ramo Akgun Assist. Prof. Dr, Department of Special Education, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Türkiye

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejse.v10i6.5595

Keywords:

sleep problems, individuals with developmental disabilities, autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, sleep quality, interventions, parental support

Abstract

Sleep problems in individuals with developmental disabilities pose significant challenges for them and their families. This paper aims to examine the types of sleep problems in these individuals, the causes of these issues, and their impact on daily life. Through the analysis of available literature and research conducted on a sample of 67 individuals with special needs and their parents, data are obtained on the prevalence of sleep problems, influential factors, and methods for coping with them. The results show that sleep problems in individuals with developmental disabilities are significant and can seriously impact their quality of life. More than 70% of parents state that the lack of sleep negatively affects their daily life and professional activities. The main causes of sleep problems have been identified as sensory disturbances, melatonin deficiency, and other health issues related to the child's condition. Additionally, 73.4% of parents report that they cope with their children's sleep problems independently. These findings suggest a need for improved strategies and interventions for managing sleep in individuals with developmental disabilities, including enhanced support for parents. The significance of these findings lies in highlighting the need for the development of specialized programs and interventions that will help improve the quality of life for these individuals and their families.

 

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Author Biographies

  • Natasha Chichevska Jovanova, PhD, Institute of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, North Macedonia

    Natasha Chichevska Jovanova, Prof. Dr., Cyril and Methodius University, Faculty of Philosophy, Institute of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia. e-mail: natasac@fzf.ukim.edu.mk

  • Valerija Ilieska, Special Educator and Rehabilitator, Institute of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, North Macedonia

    Valerija Ilieska, Special Educator and Rehabilitator, Cyril and Methodius University, Faculty of Philosophy, Institute of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia. e-mail: ilieskavalerija12@gmail.com

  • Olivera Rashikj Canevska, PhD, Institute of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, North Macedonia

    Olivera Rashikj Canevska, Prof. Dr., Cyril and Methodius University, Faculty of Philosophy, Institute of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia. e-mail: oliverarasic@fzf.ukim.edu.mk

  • Nergis Ramo Akgun, Assist. Prof. Dr, Department of Special Education, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Türkiye

    Nergis Ramo Akgün, Assist. Prof. Dr., Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Faculty of Education, Department of Special Education, Çanakkale, Türkiye. e-mail: nergisramoakgun@comu.edu.tr

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Published

2024-09-25

Issue

Vol. 10 No. 6 (2024)

Section

Articles

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