The Open Sleep Journal

2012, 5 : 51-58
Published online 2012 November 16. DOI: 10.2174/1874620901205010051
Publisher ID: TOSLPJ-5-51

Psychosocial Challenges Related to Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder

Ane Wilhelmsen-Langeland , Ingrid Dundas , Ingvild West Saxvig , Stale Pallesen , Inger-Hilde Nordhus and Bjørn Bjorvatn
Department of Public Health and Primary Health Care, University of Bergen, Postboks 7804, 5020 Bergen, Norway.

ABSTRACT

Delayed sleep phase disorder (DSPD) is a disorder where the circadian rhythm is delayed according to the conventional norms, often resulting in school- and work related difficulties as well as emotional challenges. Research on the experiences of having DSPD is lacking, and to enhance our understanding we conducted a qualitative study using indepth semi structured interviews focusing on the challenges of having DSPD. A sample of 9 participants (16-23 years) diagnosed with DSPD was interviewed and analysis was done using systematic text condensation. A core theme in all interviews was how to cope with different challenges related to the disorder. We labelled the identified challenges: 1) To give something up; 2) To blame something or someone and 3) To have a problem or not. Awareness of these challenges adds to our understanding of the daily struggles of those with DSPD and may improve clinicians` competence and ability to help them.

Keywords:

Delayed sleep phase disorder, adolescents, young adults.