Sleep is a fascinating topic. Some
people can function with no sleep, while some cannot function without sleep. However,
there is now scientific evidence that proves that the amount of sleep and
irregularity of bedtimes can actually disrupt a persons body rhythms and cause
sleep deprivation.
A study published in the journal Pediatrics found that children who go to
bed at irregular times will disrupt their body rhythms and slow the brains
natural maturation and ability to regulate behaviors. Professor Yvonne Kelly (UCL Epidemiology & Public Health) noted
that, "Not having fixed bedtimes, accompanied by a constant sense of flux,
induces a state of body and mind akin to jet lag and this matters for healthy
development and daily functioning." In the study conducted, 10,000
children, ages 3, 5, and 7, were analyzed by collecting data on their bedtimes
and reports of any behavioral problems from both students and teachers. In the
end the clear statistical link claimed that behavior is ultimately affected by
irregular bedtimes. The lack of sleep and regular sleeping patterns can cause a
child to act out and disrupt, and have increased levels of irritability.
However, people should not be overly concerned if their child starts to
act up because of irregular sleep patterns. In the study it was also found that
changing ones sleeping habits will help reduce any behavioral problems.
Unfortunately, if irregular bedtime patterns continue—the matter will only get
worse. The longer irregular sleeping patterns occur, the worse off people can
become.
Perhaps knowing that not changing sleeping patterns can have a negative
effect is a pressing issue people should take notice of. While the people I am
surrounded by are mostly of college age, or older, I think it is still
important that they pay attention to this finding. Whether learning that
changing their own sleeping pattern will help their personality and behavioral
development, or whether acknowledging that their future children should have
regular bedtimes to help them adjust and behave in a less disruptive
manner—everyone can take away something from this study.
Irregular bedtimes are easy to come by. Society pushes kids to the
limits. More and more kids are involved in after school activities and sports
than ever before. With kids hectic schedules they may not be home and ready for
bed at the same time every night. However, it is important to maintain some
kind of stable bedtime for the majority of a child’s week. Without the proper bedtime kids circadian
rhythms (natural body rhythms) will be disrupted and lead to a slower brain
maturation and the ability to regulate their own behavior. So, why not help
benefit the future, and yourself by just taking the time to sleep properly? It
will help you be a better, happier person the next day.
To read more about this study you can visit: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/10/131014093859.htm
