American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) Practice Exam 2026 - Free ABPN Practice Questions and Study Guide

Sleep terrors, also known as night terrors, are a type of parasomnia commonly seen in children, and they are characterized by several specific features. Among these characteristics, detailed dream recall is notably absent. Individuals experiencing sleep terrors typically do not remember the events of the episode upon awakening. Instead, they may awaken screaming or in a state of confusion, with no clear memory of the frightening experience itself.

The other characteristics, such as awakening and screaming, autonomic arousal (which may include rapid heart rate, increased breathing, and sweating), and sweating are indeed common features of sleep terrors. During an episode, a child may sit up in bed, exhibit signs of distress, and display heightened sympathetic nervous system activity, which all contribute to the overall arousal response. Therefore, the absence of detailed dream recall is a key reason why this option is correct, distinguishing sleep terrors from other sleep disorders such as nightmares, where the individual can often remember the vivid details of the dream.