Isabella Chase
There’s a fascinating connection between our bedtime rituals and our daily behavior.
For some, the ritual involves having a TV or another device on to fall asleep. It might seem odd, but it’s a thing. And it’s not just about the soothing sound or light.
Psychology suggests that this habit usually goes hand in hand with specific behaviors. It’s intriguing, isn’t it?
So, let’s uncover these behaviors that people who need a device on to fall asleep usually display. Here are eight behaviors that might make you go, “Aha! That’s why!”
1) They are visual learners
Did you know our learning style can influence our bedtime routines? It’s true.
Visual learners, as the name suggests, learn best through visual aids. This makes them more susceptible to visual stimuli, such as a TV screen or a tablet display.
It’s not surprising then, that these individuals often need the TV or other device on to fall asleep. The moving images and changing light patterns engage their mind in a way that helps them unwind and eventually drift off.
Psychology recognizes this as a distinct behavior among those who need a device on to sleep. It’s intriguing how our learning style can infiltrate even the most personal parts of our lives, like our sleeping habits.
But remember, it doesn’t imply any harm or negative implications. It’s just one of those peculiarities that make us unique.
2) They crave background noise
Now, this is something I can personally relate to.
I’ve always found silence deafening, especially when I’m trying to sleep. It’s like my brain starts playing a symphony of thoughts in the absence of any external sounds, making it harder for me to fall asleep.
So, I started using my phone to play soft music or ambient sounds at night. And guess what? It worked like magic! I found myself falling asleep faster and sleeping more soundly.
Psychologists suggest that this behavior is quite common among people who need the TV or another device on to fall asleep. They say it’s a form of self-soothing mechanism where the background noise acts as a distraction from overthinking or stress.
The key is to ensure that the background noise isn’t disruptive or stimulating enough to keep you awake. That’s why many people, like me, prefer soft music or nature sounds over anything else.
It’s interesting, isn’t it, how our mind finds its own unique ways to cope with the challenges we face?
3) They have a high need for cognition
People who need the TV or another device on to fall asleep often display a high need for cognition. This means they enjoy thinking, problem-solving, and mental challenges.
In a study published in the Journal of Consumer Research, individuals with a high need for cognition were found to be more likely to engage in activities that require mental effort, even during their downtime. This might explain why they find the stimulus of a TV show or podcast comforting as they drift off to sleep.
This behavior can be related to the brain’s tendency to seek information and stimuli constantly. So while it may seem counterintuitive to some, for these individuals, it’s just another way their mind stays engaged.
4) They are prone to overthinking
Overthinking is a beast that many of us grapple with, and it often loves to make its presence felt most powerfully at bedtime.
For those who struggle with this, having the TV or another device on can serve as a distraction from the whirlwind of thoughts. The sounds and visuals provide something else for the mind to focus on, rather than getting stuck in a loop of negative or stressful thoughts.
Psychologists suggest that this behavior is a form of coping mechanism against overthinking. The external stimulus helps regulate the internal chatter, paving the way for sleep to set in.
Remember, it’s not about suppressing thoughts, but more about creating a diversion that allows the mind to relax and eventually drift into sleep.
5) They seek comfort in familiarity
Sometimes, it’s the little things that bring us the most comfort. For some, it’s the warmth of a childhood blanket; for others, it’s the flicker of a TV screen or the soft hum of a device.
Those who need the TV or another device on to fall asleep often find comfort in the familiarity that it offers. It’s like a lullaby that has soothed them to sleep for years, and now their sleep seems incomplete without it.
Psychology tells us that humans are creatures of habit and routine. These familiar cues signal to our brain that it’s time to unwind and prepare for sleep. It’s a ritual that brings a sense of safety and tranquility, coaxing them gently into the realm of dreams.
So, if you have a loved one who can’t do without their device at bedtime, remember, it’s more than just a habit. It’s their unique way of finding comfort and peace in a world that often seems too loud and chaotic.
6) They struggle with insomnia
Insomnia can feel like a relentless cycle of sleepless nights and groggy days. I know because I’ve been there. Lying awake in the dark, counting sheep, or trying every breathing exercise under the sun, but sleep remains elusive.
In those moments, I found solace in the soft glow of my tablet, playing a slow documentary or a calming podcast. The sound of a comforting voice or familiar story had a soothing effect that lulled me into slumber.
Psychologists suggest that for people struggling with insomnia, having a TV or other device on can be a form of therapy. Rather than focusing on their inability to sleep, they concentrate on the content playing, which often helps them relax and sleep better.
Of course, this should not replace professional medical advice, but it’s one way that many insomniacs cope with their condition. It’s about finding what works for you and embracing it without judgment.
7) They experience anxiety
Anxiety has a sneaky way of creeping up when we’re trying to wind down, and it can significantly disrupt our sleep. Those dealing with anxiety often struggle with racing thoughts and heightened worry at bedtime.
Having the TV or another device on can provide a helpful distraction from these anxious feelings. The sounds and visuals offer something else to focus on, diverting attention away from anxiety-inducing thoughts.
Psychology recognizes this as a common coping strategy among individuals dealing with anxiety. The key is to ensure that the content is calming and does not fuel the anxiety further. This is why many opt for light-hearted shows or relaxing music to help them drift off to sleep.
It’s not a cure for anxiety, but it’s one tool in the toolbox that can help manage it better, especially during the night when professional help may not be readily available.
8) They are night owls
Perhaps the most important thing to understand is that many people who need the TV or another device on to fall asleep are inherently night owls. Their internal body clock, or circadian rhythm, is naturally inclined to stay awake late into the night.
Having a device on can help them transition from their active state to a more relaxed and sleepy state. The gradual shift in audio-visual content signals to their brain that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
Psychologists suggest that this behavior is common among night owls as they adapt to a world designed for early risers. It’s a form of compromise between their natural tendencies and societal expectations, helping them find a balance that works best for them.
Final thoughts: It’s about finding balance
At the heart of human behavior and our unique quirks is a quest for balance and harmony.
For those who need the TV or another device on to fall asleep, it’s not about dependency or addiction. Rather, it’s a simple manifestation of their subconscious attempts to create a soothing environment that fosters relaxation and sleep.
Psychologists suggest that these behaviors represent adaptive strategies to cope with different challenges, such as insomnia, anxiety, or overthinking. They are individualized solutions that cater to our unique needs and preferences.
As we all navigate through life, we find our own ways to find peace, comfort, and relaxation. For some, it might be a cup of warm milk before bed; for others, it’s the hum of a TV show or the glow of a device screen.
In understanding these behaviors, we not only learn more about others but also about ourselves. Each behavior is a thread in the intricate tapestry of human nature, revealing the myriad ways we adapt, cope, and thrive in our daily lives.
As we switch off the lights tonight and prepare for sleep, let’s take a moment to appreciate these unique practices. After all, they are a testament to our resilience and our relentless pursuit of balance in an ever-changing world.
