How are psychological factors involved in the evaluation and treatment of sleep and circadian rhythm disorders?

Abstract

Clinical sleep psychology is a branch of psychological science that aims to understand and harness psychological factors (i.e., affective, behavioral, cognitive, social, and environmental) that are involved in sleep and circadian disorders. Behavioral Sleep Medicine, a branch of sleep medicine, has a similar focus (https://www.behavioralsleep.org/). Collectively, these clinical branches of sleep psychology aim to effectively evaluate and treat sleep and circadian rhythm disorders to promote sleep health. Clinical sleep psychology has a long history, including early work in the areas of insomnia, behavioral treatment for pediatric sleep disorders, dream psychology, and hypnotic sleep (Jacobson 1934; McReynolds 1997; Mower and Mower 1938; Münsterberg 1915; Watson 1928). The past 100 years have seen considerable progress in identifying psychological factors involved in sleep and circadian rhythm disorders and their treatment, particularly in insomnia and pediatric sleep disorders. Barriers to advancement persist.