Although the exact cause of nightmares is unknown, children seem to experience more nightmares when they are stressed or scared about something. According to a cross-sectional study of 6,359 children, hyperactivity, frequent temper outbursts, and poor academic performance are associated with recurrent nightmares in children.
The same study suggests that frequent nightmares could be the result of several factors, including trouble sleeping, drastic changes in their lives, family financial situation, and home environment.
Sometimes children can have nightmares after watching a horror movie or reading a horror book right before bed. Children can also experience nightmares when a significant change occurs in their life, such as moving home, attending a new school, or experiencing family tension.
Although occasional nightmares can be harmless and go away soon, chronic and recurring nightmares can cause personal distress and indicate a wide spectrum of psychopathological symptoms in children. These symptoms can include elevated anxiety traits, difficult temperament, and emotional and behavioral problems.