Genetic and environmental contributions to stability and change of sleep problems in toddlerhood

Abstract

ObjectiveTo examine genetic and environmental contributions to stability and change in sleep problems (SP) in early childhood.MethodsThe sample comprised over 300 twin pairs assessed at ages 2 and 3 years. Parents rated SP on the Sleep Problems subscale of the Child Behavior Checklist for ages 1.5-5 years. ResultsLongitudinal quantitative genetic analyses indicated that SP were genetically influenced at both ages. The stability of SP from ages 2 to 3 years was largely due to genetic factors common to both ages. Nonshared environmental influences displayed modest continuity across age. New genetic and nonshared environmental factors emerged at age 3 years.ConclusionsGenetic factors contribute to the stability in SP, whereas change is due to both genetic and nonshared environmental influences. Early interventions on SP and individualized treatments based on children's unique environmental experiences may be fruitful. © The Author 2012. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society of Pediatric Psychology. All rights reserved.