A study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General by a team of researchers at Duke University has shed light on the significant role of sleep in enhancing decision-making.
Dr Alison Adcock, a Duke professor of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, stated, “This is an exciting first look at how our brains summarise a rewarding experience. When it’s over, our brain knits it all together in memory to help us make better choices — and that neat trick happens overnight.”
The findings highlight the importance of ‘sleeping on it,’ suggesting that taking a step back can weaken the grip of initial judgments. Rushed decisions often stem from hasty evaluations influenced by first impressions, a phenomenon known as the primacy effect.
Dr Chandril Chugh, the director of Good Deed Clinic and a senior consultant neurologist, explains the science behind this phenomenon and its implications for our daily lives.
What is the primacy effect?
He explains, “The primacy effect is a brain bias where we tend to remember and give more importance to the first piece of information we learn about something. This can affect our decisions because we may rely too much on what we learned first, even if more important information comes later. It can cause us to make decisions based on first impressions rather than the whole picture.”
Sleep plays a crucial role in decision-making by facilitating memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and cognitive restoration, he highlights. During sleep, particularly during the rapid eye movement (REM) and slow-wave sleep stages, the brain processes and consolidates information acquired during the day.
He continues, “This consolidation helps in organising memories, strengthening neural connections related to important information, and filtering out less relevant details. As a result, when we wake up, we often have a clearer perspective on problems and can approach decision-making with a refreshed mind.”
How does sleep impact our ability to process information and make decisions?
According to Dr Chugh, sleep affects our decision-making abilities in several ways. “Firstly, it enhances our ability to recall relevant information. Sleep helps transfer information from short-term to long-term memory, making it easier to access when needed for decision-making.”
He adds, “Secondly, sleep regulates emotions. Emotional balance is crucial for rational decision-making, and sleep helps process emotional experiences, reducing the impact of negative emotions on our choices.”
Dr Chugh also points out, “Thirdly, sleep restores cognitive functions such as attention, concentration, and executive functions, which are essential for weighing options and making informed decisions.”
What are the potential consequences of making important decisions when sleep-deprived?
Dr Chugh warns about the risks of making decisions while sleep-deprived. “Sleep deprivation can lead to impaired judgement, increased risk-taking behaviour, and difficulty assessing complex situations. It can also decrease the ability to control impulses, leading to hasty or emotional decisions rather than well-thought-out ones.”
He elaborates, “Moreover, lack of sleep affects our ability to accurately gauge risks and rewards, potentially leading to poor financial, personal, or professional choices. Sleep-deprived individuals may also struggle with creativity and problem-solving, limiting their ability to develop innovative solutions or see different perspectives in decision-making scenarios.”
The findings highlight the importance of ‘sleeping on it,’ suggesting that taking a step back can weaken the grip of initial judgments.
Are there any specific sleep patterns or durations that are particularly beneficial for decision-making?
Dr Chugh stresses the importance of consistent sleep patterns. “While individual sleep needs vary, most adults require 7-9 hours of sleep per night for optimal cognitive function. Consistency in sleep patterns is key — going to bed and waking up at similar times each day helps regulate the body’s internal clock, which in turn optimises cognitive performance.”
He adds, “Sleep quality is as important as the quantity. Ensuring a full sleep cycle, including REM and non-REM stages, is crucial for memory consolidation and cognitive restoration. This typically occurs over a 90-minute cycle, repeated several times throughout the night.”
How can individuals incorporate these findings into their daily lives to improve decision-making?
Dr Chugh offers practical advice for incorporating these findings into daily life. “Prioritise sleep as an essential part of your decision-making process. When faced with important decisions, try to ensure you get a good night’s sleep before finalising your choice.”
He suggests, “Develop a consistent sleep schedule and create a sleep-friendly environment. Avoid screens before bedtime, as blue light can interfere with the production of sleep hormones. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also improve sleep quality.”
For critical decisions, consider the ‘sleep on it’ approach, he says. Allow yourself time to process information overnight before making a final choice. This can lead to more balanced, well-considered decisions.”
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.