Sleep Disorders: Elements, History, Treatments, and Research

This sourcebook traces the history of sleep disorders - from restless legs to insomnia to night terrors - alongside emerging research, illustrations of sleep disorders in society, and treatment approaches.

Part of the Health and Psychology Sourcebooks series, this compact volume offers concise information on a critical issue threatening human health and well-being: sleep disorders. The authors of this volume are established psychologists and researchers specializing in sleep and sleep disorders: one serves as an editor for the Journal of Sleep Disorders and Therapy, and the other is a certified behavioural sleep medicine specialist.

Sleep Disorders begins with an introduction highlighting the prevalence of sleep disorders and the widespread impact of sleep deprivation, underscoring why they are now considered a public health concern. Subsequent chapters explain and illustrate disorders including apnea, insomnia, narcolepsy, nightmares, night terrors, and sleepwalking. Each chapter provides an empirical overview followed by a case study, covering the history, symptoms, incidence, and theoretical frameworks of each disorder, as well as the personal, familial, societal, and economic dimensions. Treatment strategies, solutions, and emerging research are also discussed in depth.

The Health and Psychology Sourcebooks series is ideal for undergraduate students, practitioners, and general readers interested in learning more about health and psychological conditions.

Kathy J. Sexton-Radek, PhD, CBSM, is professor of psychology at Elmhurst College. She is an editor for the Journal of Sleep Disorders and Therapy and a board member of several professional journals on sleep medicine/health psychology.

Gina Graci, PhD, CBSM, is a licensed clinical psychologist and certified behavioral sleep medicine specialist employed as a private practitioner specializing in sleep disorders and psychosocial oncology. Graci has published widely in leading medical journals.