You’re exhausted, it’s midnight… and you’re still scrolling TikTok. Why?
Welcome to the growing psychological trap called bedtime procrastination—a behavior where people deliberately delay sleep for no practical reason, even when fully aware it will ruin their next day. First coined in 2014 by researchers led by Dr. Floor Kroese, the phenomenon has gone global—particularly with the rise of smartphones and binge-worthy streaming.
But it gets deeper.
A viral sub-trend known as “revenge bedtime procrastination” exploded in China during 2020, as burnt-out workers stayed up late to reclaim personal time after grueling schedules. The “revenge” part? It’s not against anyone in particular—it’s against the day itself. For people who feel their daytime is not their own, staying up late becomes an act of defiance… but one that backfires.
The science-backed consequences are serious:
- Decreased sleep time
- Poor concentration and decision-making
- Irritability and mood swings
- Increased risk of heart issues and weakened immunity
Experts say the key to breaking the cycle is restoring control. That means building a consistent bedtime routine, limiting screens an hour before sleep, and addressing emotional needs during the day—not when you’re already drained.
So next time you catch yourself saying “just one more episode” or “I deserve this scroll”—remember, your body might not agree in the morning.
