Sleepwalking Behaviors

Teens who sleepwalk are most likely to do so within an hour or so of falling asleep. Somnambulism, the medical term for sleepwalking, might include other behaviors such as talking while asleep, clumsiness, seeming dazed or repeating certain motions such as rubbing the eyes, according to MyClevelandClinic.org. Sleepwalking teens might not respond when spoken to or be reluctant to wake up in the morning. Some teens who sleepwalk also have night terrors or wet the bed. Teens who sleepwalk might also urinate on the floor or even try to drive a car. A sleepwalker could wander around for a few seconds or as long as 30 minutes, according to KidsHealth.

Factors that Promote Sleepwalking

Fatigue, irregular sleep schedules, sleep deprivation, stress, illness or fever can all increase the chances of sleepwalking, according to MyClevelandClinic.org. Sleepwalking might also have a hereditary component. Sleeping in a strange or noisy environment can increase the chance of sleepwalking. Adolescent sleep patterns during the school week -- teens are often unable to sleep until late at night but must get up early for school, which results in sleep deprivation -- might increase the risk of sleepwalking in susceptible teens. Some medications can also increase the risk of sleepwalking, as can going to bed with a full bladder.

Promoting Sleep

Promoting restful sleep might decrease the potential for sleepwalking, according to KidsHealth. Early school start times, after-school activities, sports and homework can increase the possibility that your teen will go to bed late on school nights. A regular sleep schedule with a set bedtime can help decrease sleep deprivation. Teens should avoid caffeine, especially in the evening. Soft music or relaxation tapes might help teens relax and get to sleep more easily at bedtime. A full bladder might increase the risk of sleepwalking; your teen should refrain from drinking a lot just before bedtime and should go to the bathroom before going to bed. A teen's bedroom should be cool, quiet and dark.

Strategies for Sleepwalking

If you encounter a sleepwalking teen, KidsHealth recommends you not try to wake her up. If possible, guide her back to bed while talking to her reassuringly. Teens who sleepwalk should have a ground floor bedroom if possible, as they might try to walk down stairs while still asleep. Lock doors and windows throughout the home. Put car keys away to ensure a teen who sleepwalks won't try to drive the car. If you have guns in the home, make sure they are secure. A teen who sleepwalks might turn on a hot water tap, so set your thermostat low enough to prevent scalds. Seek help from your teen's pediatrician if the problem persists.