Persistent insomnia frequently linked to deep-seated personality issues
In a recent study conducted by the University of Utah, researchers delved into the sleep habits and personality traits of individuals who struggle to sleep at night. The study, which involved 390 young adults with an average age of around 24 years, aimed to shed light on the behaviour of those often referred to as "night owls".
Participants in the study were categorized into two groups: "night owls" and "morning larks". To evaluate their sleep patterns, each participant kept a sleep diary for a period of 14 days. The study found that those who struggled to sleep late exhibited certain negative personality traits, such as poor planning skills, low self-discipline, and problems with time management.
Interestingly, the study also revealed that "night owls" reported less often seeking out exciting, thrilling, or entertaining activities compared to those who regularly delay their bedtime. However, the study did not provide direct information about common personality traits associated with individuals who tend to go to bed late, such as higher creativity, increased risk-taking, and sometimes more introversion or rebelliousness, which are traits often found in general psychological research.
Steven Carlson, a doctoral student in the Department of Psychology at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, stated these findings in an interview with "EurekAlert". Carlson also clarified that the study found no evidence that a specific sleep schedule is best for falling asleep. Instead, the focus was on understanding the behaviour and personality traits of those who struggle to sleep late.
The questionnaire used in the study focused on five personality traits: neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. By analysing the responses to this questionnaire, the researchers were able to divide the participants into the two groups: "night owls" and "morning larks".
Difficulties in dealing with fears and worries can also be a cause of this behaviour, according to the study. However, further research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between sleep habits, personality traits, and mental health.
This study provides valuable insights into the sleep patterns and personality traits of individuals who struggle to sleep at night. By understanding these patterns, we can potentially develop strategies to help improve sleep habits and overall mental health.
People who struggle to sleep late, often categorized as "night owls", were shown to have lower scores in conscientiousness, a trait that encompasses self-discipline and planning skills, according to the study. Additionally, these "night owls" reported less engagement in activities associated with health-and-wellness and mental health, such as seeking out exciting or thrilling activities, hinting at potential correlations between sleep habits, personality traits, and psychological well-being.
