Characterizing Sleep Problems in 16p11.2 Deletion and Duplication.

Kamara et al. (2023) asked parents about sleep in people with 16p11.2 deletions or duplications. They also asked parents of relatives who do not carry the change. Everyone filled out the same sleep survey.

The team compared scores to norms from the general public. They looked at sleep quality, not just hours of sleep.

Carriers and their non-carrier relatives both had more sleep troubles than typical peers. Total sleep time was the same, but falling or staying asleep was harder.

The problems showed up in both kids and adults. If a client has this genetic change, expect night waking, bedtime resistance, or daytime tiredness.

de Leeuw et al. (2024) studied the same genetic group and found high rates of social and behavior issues. Together, the two papers paint a full picture: expect both daytime behavior needs and nighttime sleep needs.

Smith et al. (2022) showed that these carriers also have sensory problems. Sleep, sensory, and behavior troubles often travel together, so screen all three areas.

Annaz et al. (2011) saw a similar sleep pattern in Williams syndrome. The takeaway: many genetic conditions share sleep risk, so always ask about bedtime.

If your client has a 16p11.2 deletion or duplication, add sleep questions to your intake. Poor rest can worsen problem behavior and slow skill gains. A simple bedtime checklist or referral to a sleep clinic can boost daytime ABA success.