![]() ![]() We hypothesized that a large number of sleep apps for children would exist, but that few would describe evidence-based behavioral strategies.įlow diagram for the app search in this study.ĭata on the type of app, price, user rating, and number of users were collected. Thus, the goal of this study was to (1) examine the number and characteristics of sleep apps for children and (2) analyze the purported features and claims in the developer description of these apps. Because families may search for these apps independently (eg, without support of a health care professional), it is essential that the app descriptions contain accurate information. Sleep apps are easy for families to access given today’s high rates of smart phone usage and mobile internet availability, but little evidence exists about the sleep apps available for children, or the validity of the services and information provided in the developer description of the apps. Thus, sleep apps available on the market may not be grounded in behavioral constructs or contain evidence-based information, but this has not yet been examined for apps aimed at children. However, user ratings were also higher for apps that contained a “sleep tip” function, regardless of whether these tips were based on empirical evidence. ![]() User ratings were higher for the apps containing at least one source of empirical information compared to those without empirical information. The most common empirical evidence provided was information on how sleep is affected by drugs and alcohol (24%), food (13%), daily activities (13%), and stress (13%). Another study examined empirical evidence contained within the developer descriptions of sleep apps targeted to adults from Google Play and found that only 33% of sleep apps contained empirical evidence to support claims made in the app descriptions. Authors also found a positive but nonsignificant association between higher user rating of the app and number of behavioral constructs. The most common behavioral constructs were realistic goal setting, time management, and self-monitoring. Grigsby-Toussaint et al evaluated 35 sleep apps for adults and found that only 34% incorporated evidence-based behavioral constructs. One study examined behavioral constructs contained within the apps to evaluate how well these apps are grounded in behavioral theory, which has a strong evidence base for sleep interventions. While no studies have previously examined sleep apps for children, 2 studies have examined sleep apps for adults. Hence, many parents may turn to other sources for help with their children’s sleep, including technological strategies such as smartphone apps. In particular, pediatricians may lack knowledge about appropriate sleep interventions for children. Empirically supported treatments for pediatric sleep problems exist, but many families face barriers in seeking appropriate care, such as difficulty accessing a provider with specialized sleep training. Approximately 20%-30% of infants, toddlers, and children have significant difficulties with falling asleep and night wakings, and pediatric sleep difficulties are among the most common complaints reported by parents to pediatricians. Sleep problems in young children are common and associated with significant negative behavioral and physical consequences for children as well as increased sleep disruption and stress for their parents. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |