Understanding and redefining insomnia through new assessment methods

Redefining Insomnia: A Comparison of Categorical and Dimensional Approaches

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11132839

This study is looking at how we understand and measure insomnia, which affects many people, by comparing personal experiences with scientific tools, and it invites patients to help by sharing their sleep habits and using a device that tracks their sleep patterns.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11132839 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how insomnia is defined and assessed, focusing on both subjective experiences and objective measurements. It aims to explore the complexity of insomnia, which may involve various underlying factors such as hyperarousal and circadian misalignment. By comparing different approaches to diagnosing insomnia, the study seeks to improve the understanding of this common sleep disorder and its impact on daily life. Patients may be asked to participate by providing sleep diaries and undergoing assessments using actigraphy, which tracks sleep patterns.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who experience difficulties with sleep and related distress.

Not a fit: Patients with sleep disorders unrelated to insomnia or those who do not experience significant sleep difficulties may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatments for insomnia, improving patients' quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that re-evaluating diagnostic criteria can lead to better understanding and treatment of complex disorders, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.