The Ferber method is perhaps the most well-known sleep training program for children.
parents leave their children alone for strictly-timed intervals, ignoring their children’s protests and cries. When the method works, kids gradually accept that no one will come to their aid, and, as a result, their behavior becomes less disruptive.
1. The Ferber method is NOT appropriate for young babies.
2. The Ferber method is NOT appropriate for kids who have a conditioned fear of being left alone in their beds.
3. The Ferber method is NOT appropriate as a treatment for most child sleep problems.
The link below will be able to give you a better understanding of what the ferber method is about.
http://www.mybabysleepguide.com/2009/01/sleep-training-ferber.html?m=1
Hope this helps.