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Psychological Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Decision-Making and Mood

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT: This qualitative study investigates the psychological effects of sleep deprivation on decision-making and mood through in-depth interviews with 35 participants (aged 20–44, 51.4% male, 48.6% female) from diverse educational and occupational backgrounds. Thematic analysis of self-reported data revealed that 31.4% experienced irregular or insufficient sleep (<7 hours), primarily due to stress (71.4%) and excessive screen time (62.9%, 1–16+ hours daily). Sleep deprivation was linked to negative mood states, including irritability (51.4%), fatigue/lethargy (34.3%), and anxiety (22.9%), with 48.6% reporting decision-making impairments such as indecisiveness and poor choices. Frequent fast food consumption (≥2 times/week, 40%) worsened mood and lethargy, while screen breaks (57.1%) and healthier diets improved psychological outcomes. Findings underscore the need for interventions like digital detoxes and sleep hygiene education to mitigate the adverse effects of sleep deprivation, particularly among high-screen-use groups like students and professionals. Keywords: Sleep deprivation, decision-making, mood, screen time, digital detox, qualitative interviews, psychological well-being

Source: Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.15558851

Author: Dr. Sagar Bayaskar1, Dr. Deepak Sharma2, Dr. Naveen Barde3, Dr. Aishwarya Mahalle4, Dr. Soundarya Mahalle5, Dr. Riya Tale6

Institution: Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research

Language: English

Topic: Sleep and related disorders

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W6893468263

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