Study (2020): Weighted blankets and their effect on sleep quality in children with autism spectrum disorder

The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of weighted blankets and sleep quality in children with autism spectrum disorders and behavioral manifestations of sensory processing deficits. Two 4-year-old participants diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and also suffering from sleep disturbances took part in this study. Objective sleep measurements and caregiver surveys were conducted over a period of eight days. This was followed by a 14-day use of a weighted blanket and then a seven-day withdrawal phase. Caregiver reports and objective data were evaluated using visual analysis and the percentage of non-overlapping data. 

The results suggest that sleep behavior changed only minimally through the use of the weighted blanket. The findings based on the use of a weighted blanket were improved morning mood after nighttime use and a significantly reduced time to fall asleep for the participants.

About the study

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