Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptomatology and pediatric obesity: Psychopathology or sleep deprivation?

Authors

Alyssa Lundahl, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Timothy D. Nelson, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2016

Citation

Published in Journal of Health Psychology 2016, Vol. 21(6) 1055–1065

Comments

Copyright 2016 University of Nebraska. Used by Permission.

Abstract

The relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and obesity in children has received considerable attention in recent years. However, the literature currently overlooks the potential causal and maintaining role that sleep problems may play in this relationship. Using a biopsychosocial framework, this article highlights how sleep problems impact the biological, psychological, and social aspects of both ADHD symptomatology and obesity. An in-depth examination of this model illustrates the imperative need for future research and clinical practice to recognize and explore the role sleep has in the link between obesity and ADHD symptomatology.