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Using Functional Behavioral Assessment to Develop a Multicomponent Treatment for Sleep Problems in a 3-Year-Old Boy With Autism

A large number of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families are affected by sleep disturbance. Given the concomitant negative effects of sleep problems, it is essential to identify effective treatments. This case study exemplifies the use of Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) to develop treatments for sleep problems in a 3-year old boy with ASD. A function-based, multicomponent intervention resulted in the elimination of nighttime breastfeeding, a reduction in the frequency of curtain calls, and the frequency and duration of nighttime awakenings, although not all gains were maintained at follow-up. This case study highlights the importance of FBA in the assessment of sleep problems for each individual, and the need to develop treatments that address the unique function of sleep disturbance for each individual. Further research into the assessment and treatment of sleep problems in children with ASD is required.