Researchers studied more than 8,000 children and looked at survey answers and brain images. They found that children who lived with money problems and slept fewer hours had more trouble managing emotions.
Economic hardship at age 10 predicted higher risk of suicidal thoughts and attempts at ages 11 and 12. Stronger connections in a brain area for self-reflection seemed to reduce the harm from poor sleep.
The team suggests checking sleep in pediatric visits and school mental health programs to help at-risk youth.
Difficult words
- economic hardship — lack of money and financial stability
- suicidal thought — idea about ending one's own lifesuicidal thoughts
- self-reflection — thinking about your own feelings and actions
- pediatric — relating to medical care for children
- at-risk — having a higher chance of health or safety problems
- predict — to say what will likely happen laterpredicted
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why might sleep be important for a child's emotions?
- How could a pediatric visit check a child's sleep?
- What can schools do to support students who do not sleep enough?
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