Sleep disorder could be one of the reasons for kids to be more bullying to others, according to a recent study.

The study, which was published in the journal Sleep Medicine, is based on data collected from over 300 schools in Michigan, and focuses on elementary school children. The researchers surveyed the parents and teachers of the children, and used this data to evaluate and match kids’ sleeping patterns and link it to health and other problems.

It has been known for a while that sleeping disorders and lack of sleep are associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a neurobehavioral disorder which results in inattentive, overactive and impulsive children. But this is among the first studies that have directly linked sleep disorder to bullying.

Louise O'Brien, a University of Michigan professor and a member of its Sleep Disorders Center, gave a more scientific explanation in a press statement issued by the Center: “We know that the prefrontal cortex area of the brain is sensitive to sleep deprivation, and this area is also related to emotional control, decision making and social behaviour.”

But she also suggested a fairly simple way to solve the problem. “Sleep-disordered breathing can be treated, and schools or parents can encourage kids to get more sleep.”

Hopefully solving the bullying problem could be as simple as that.