Evie Summers
It is a common assumption that bad people do their dirty work in the cloak of darkness. While this may be a stereotype, there is some truth to the idea that psychopaths are night owls. Research has found that people with psychopathic traits tend to work better at night and have unusual sleep patterns. They need fewer hours of sleep and restlessness is uncommon. However, it's important to note that not all night owls are psychopaths, and there are other factors at play, such as genetic preference and environmental influences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Unusual sleep patterns | Tend to be night owls |
| Sleep duration | 2-6 hours of sleep |
| Restlessness | No tossing and turning |
| Sleep problems | Insomnia |
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What You'll Learn
Psychopaths are more likely to be night owls
It is true that not every night owl is a psychopath, but research has found a correlation between psychopathy and a preference for staying up late. A 2015 study published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences found that people with psychopathic traits tend to be night owls and work better at night. This is supported by a study of Finnish adolescents, which found that those with psychopathic features were more likely to report having trouble sleeping and sleeping less than their peers.
The reason for this correlation may lie in the nature of psychopathy itself. Psychopaths tend to score high on the Dark Triad traits of narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. These individuals tend to be callous, manipulative, self-interested, and impulsive, and may prefer the night because it provides cover for immoral misdeeds. With fewer people awake and active, the risk of getting caught is lower. This theory is supported by research showing that people are generally more ethical in the morning and more likely to engage in unethical behavior later in the day.
Additionally, night owls who feel most alert and productive at night have what is known as an evening chronotype. Research has shown that people with an evening chronotype consistently score higher on the Dark Triad traits than their early bird counterparts. This suggests that there may be a link between a preference for the night and certain personality traits associated with psychopathy.
It is important to note that the research on this topic is correlational and does not establish causality. However, the correlation between psychopathy and night owl tendencies is strong enough to be considered a potential indicator of psychopathic traits. So, if you're already suspicious of someone, knowing that they stay up late could be another piece of evidence to support your suspicions.
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They may only need 4-6 hours of sleep
While it is not true of all psychopaths, some individuals with psychopathic tendencies may only require 4-6 hours of sleep each night. This is supported by a range of studies and reports, as well as first-hand accounts from people who self-identify as psychopaths or sociopaths.
For example, a 2015 study published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences found that people with psychopathic traits tend to be night owls and work better at night. This is supported by a 2020 study by Melissa Burkley, which found that people with psychopathic traits were more likely to be night owls.
In addition to these studies, a number of people who self-identify as psychopaths or sociopaths have reported only needing 4-6 hours of sleep per night. For example, one person on Reddit who identifies as a sociopath states that they have been tracking their sleep schedule for a while and consistently only needs 4-6 hours of sleep per night. They also state that they always feel refreshed and that sleeping past 6:30 am is miserable.
Another person on Reddit who identifies as a psychopath reports that they usually sleep for 4-5 hours a day and can function with as little as 30 minutes of sleep. They also mention that they know all the health issues associated with sleeping less but that it has never bothered them.
It is important to note that the ability to function on little sleep is not exclusive to psychopaths or sociopaths. Many people without these conditions may also be able to function on 4-6 hours of sleep or less. However, it is interesting to note the correlation between reduced sleep and psychopathic tendencies, as supported by both scientific studies and anecdotal evidence.
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They don't experience restlessness
While everyone needs sleep, psychopaths tend to have unusual sleeping patterns. They are generally nocturnal and tend to work better at night. When they do sleep, they can function on just a few hours of rest, and they tend not to experience restlessness.
According to Dr. Sal Raichbach PsyD, LCSW of Ambrosia Treatment Center, "There is some research to show that people who demonstrate psychopathic traits tend to sleep for a few hours very restfully, without much tossing and turning at night." He adds that people who struggle with sleep often complain of stress or racing thoughts, which would be out of character for someone with psychopathic tendencies.
The lack of restlessness in psychopaths may be due to their inability to connect with people. They tend to have an unusual inability to connect with others, which may contribute to their calm sleep patterns.
It is important to note that just because someone sleeps restlessly or only needs a few hours of sleep does not necessarily mean they are a psychopath. Psychopathy is a complex personality disorder with various characteristics, and unusual sleep patterns are just one potential indicator.
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They are more likely to engage in unethical behaviour at night
Psychopaths are more likely to engage in unethical behaviour at night, and this tendency may be linked to their preference for nocturnal activities. Research suggests that people are generally more ethical in the morning and more likely to engage in unethical behaviour later in the day. This trend may be even more pronounced in individuals with psychopathic traits.
The link between psychopathy and a preference for nighttime activities has been explored in several studies. One study found that people with psychopathic traits tend to be more productive and creative at night, exhibiting unusual sleep patterns and a tendency towards nocturnality. This finding aligns with the common assumption that "bad people do their dirty work in the cloak of darkness."
The preference for nighttime activities among psychopaths may be attributed to the reduced presence of "moral cops" during these hours. In other words, with fewer people around to enforce societal norms and catch immoral behaviour, the night provides a more conducive environment for unethical actions. This theory is supported by research suggesting that people are more willing to engage in unethical behaviour in dimly lit rooms compared to brightly lit spaces.
Additionally, the reduced cognitive functioning of others during the night may also be a factor. With most people asleep, psychopaths can take advantage of their relatively heightened alertness and creativity to pursue their goals with less risk of detection or interference. This idea is supported by Peter K. Jonason, one of the researchers who documented the correlation between psychopathic traits and nighttime activity. Jonason suggests that occupying and exploiting low-light environments where others are sleeping gives those with psychopathic traits a strategic advantage.
It is important to note that not all night owls are psychopaths, and there are other factors that contribute to unethical behaviour. However, if you suspect someone of having psychopathic tendencies, their preference for nighttime activities could be a potential indicator.
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They have a preference for bitter tastes
It turns out that enjoying bitter-tasting food and drinks could be a sign of psychopathic tendencies. Research has found a link between a preference for bitter tastes and psychopathy, with those who scored highly on psychopathy measures also tending to like bitter foods and drinks such as tonic water and coffee.
This preference for bitter tastes is not limited to psychopathy, however. The same research also found links between bitter tastes and narcissism and everyday sadism. People who like bitter flavours are more likely to exhibit psychopathic, narcissistic, or sadistic tendencies, or a combination of these traits.
On the other hand, the same study found that people who dislike bitter tastes tend to be more agreeable. So, if you're looking for a psychopath, you're more likely to find them drinking an espresso or a gin and tonic than a hot chocolate or a milkshake.
It's important to remember that enjoying bitter flavours doesn't necessarily mean someone is a psychopath. Many people enjoy bitter tastes and are not psychopaths. However, it is an interesting correlation that could provide a small clue about someone's personality.
So, if you're suspicious of someone who stays up late and likes their coffee black, be careful—they might just be a psychopath!
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