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Positive affect, psychological well-being, and good sleep
Andrew Steptoe1, Katie O'Donnell, Michael Marmot
1Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, United Kingdom. a.steptoe@ucl.ac.uk
Journal of Psychosomatic Research
|April 1, 2008
Summary
Positive affect and purpose in life (eudaimonic well-being) are linked to better sleep, independent of health and income. These psychological states also buffer the negative effects of psychosocial risks on sleep quality.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Gerontology
- Sleep Science
Background:
- Psychosocial factors significantly impact sleep quality.
- Understanding the role of positive psychological states in sleep is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if positive affect and eudaimonic well-being are independently associated with good sleep.
- To assess the mediating role of these psychological factors in the link between psychosocial risks and poor sleep.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 736 adults aged 58-72 years.
- Ecological momentary assessment of positive affect.
- Standardized questionnaires for sleep problems and psychosocial risk factors.
Main Results:
- Positive affect and eudaimonic well-being showed inverse associations with sleep problems, even after adjusting for health and socioeconomic status.
- Negative psychosocial factors like financial strain and social isolation were linked to poorer sleep.
- Positive psychological states partially mediated the impact of psychosocial risks on sleep, reducing association strength by 20-73%.
Conclusions:
- Positive affect and eudaimonic well-being are directly linked to improved sleep.
- These psychological states may mitigate the adverse effects of psychosocial stressors on sleep.
- Bidirectional relationships likely exist between sleep quality and psychological well-being.
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