This study examines sleep quality differences among 154 chemical industry workers (103 males, 51 females) categorized by chronotype (morning/evening) using the Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ). Participants worked either fixed or rotating shifts. The results show significant differences in sleep quality based on shift type and chronotype. Morning chronotypes in fixed morning shifts reported better sleep quality, while evening chronotypes surprisingly benefited from fixed morning shifts, experiencing the best sleep quality compared to those in rotating shifts. The findings highlight the importance of considering both chronotype and shift type when evaluating sleep quality. Circadian rhythm plays a crucial role in regulating sleep patterns, and shift work can disrupt this rhythm, leading to poorer sleep quality. The stability and predictability of fixed shifts provide advantages, even for evening chronotypes, by allowing them to establish routines and improve sleep quality.
Chronotypes, shift work, sleep quality, circadian rhythm
This paper is the result of research funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development of the Republic of Serbia.
Gradisar, M., & Lack, L. (2004). Circadian rhythm and sleep disruption in shift work. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 8(3), 203–214. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2004.02.003
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