Schlafverhalten vermittelt den Einfluss von Kindesmisshandlung auf depressive Symptome bei Mädchen

Sleep Behavior Reflects the Impact of Child Maltreatment on Depressive Symptoms in Girls

Abstract: Theoretical background: Child maltreatment is a risk factor for sleep problems in child development. Research question: However, our knowledge remains incomplete as to what extent the maltreatment-related risk of sleep problems (1) could be greater in girls than in boys, (2) can be traced back to certain forms of maltreatment, and (3) may promote the development of depressive symptoms. Methods: 9- to 16-year-olds ( N = 470) were recruited from the population ( n = 310) or referred by a child and adolescent psychiatry department ( n = 160). Participants and their caregivers completed questionnaires about their sleep behavior and depressive symptoms. We evaluated the maltreatment experiences reported in parent interviews based on the Maltreatment Classification System. Results: We found an interaction effect of maltreatment and gender on sleep problems in children and adolescents. The gender-dependent association between maltreatment and sleep problems was primarily attributable to emotional maltreatment and neglect. In addition, among girls, sleep problems emerged as a mediator of the effect of maltreatment on depressive symptoms. Discussion/conclusions: Compared to boys, girls with maltreatment histories, especially emotional maltreatment and neglect, manifested more sleep problems, which, in turn, increased their depressive symptoms.