Are You an Introvert or Extrovert? Science Says One Sleeps Better Than the Other

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(Image credit: Urban Outfitters Blog)

Within the past few of years, there has been a lot of talk about personality type, specifically the difference between introverts and extroverts. Introverts (like yours truly) tend to be more quiet and shy. They crave alone time in order to "recharge" from daily life. Extroverts, on the other hand, seem to be more naturally outgoing. They're most comfortable when they're surrounded by others.

Whichever camp you fall into, it can determine a lot of things about you, including your wellness habits, preferred workout routines, and even what color lipstick you wear. Now, according to a new study, it might even determine your quality of sleep. That's right. As The Debrief reports, a study conducted by researchers from Best Mattress Brand says that one personality type gets better rest, on average, than the other.

Keep reading to see whether introverts or extroverts tend to sleep better.

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(Image credit: Best Mattress Brand)

According to the study, introverts are less likely to experience quality sleep than extroverts (sorry, fellow introverts). The researchers determined this in a unique way. One thousand Americans were given the famous Myers-Briggs test, which determines specific aspects of your personality (like introversion vs. extroversion) based on responses to a questionnaire. After the Myers-Briggs test was completed, the researchers asked the participants about their individual sleep experiences. Their comments were studied in comparison with their Myers-Briggs personality type.

On average, introverts reported less energy and alertness during the day and less consistency in sleeping through the night. Interestingly enough, they also experienced more nightmares and remembered them more clearly than their extroverted counterparts. In fact, the most common nightmare—where your teeth fall out randomly and without warning—was experienced by introverts 14.2% more often than extroverts. (This nightmare is thought to be the result of experiencing heightened feelings of anxiety).

It's unclear exactly how, or why, introverts experience lower sleep quality on average. However, it is known that poor sleep can negatively affect mental health, so ensuring you get the best night's rest possible, no matter your personality type, is critical.

Head over to The Debrief and Best Mattress Brand to see more; then read up on seven ways to guarantee yourself a good night's sleep, according to scientists.

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

Kaitlyn McLintock
Associate Beauty Editor

Kaitlyn McLintock is an Associate Beauty Editor at Who What Wear. Although she covers a wide range of topics across a variety of categories, she specializes in celebrity interviews and skincare and wellness content. Having lived in Los Angeles and Austin, Texas, she recently relocated back to her home state of Michigan where she works remotely. Prior to Who What Wear, she freelanced for a variety of industry-leading digital publications, including InStyle, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Hello Giggles, and Coveteur. Before that, she held a long-term internship and subsequent contributor position at Byrdie. When she's not writing, researching, or testing the latest and greatest beauty products, she's working her way through an ever-growing book collection, swimming in the Great Lakes, or spending time with family.