There is nothing inherently wrong with being a “night owl.” But “evening types” and “night owls” are more likely to develop delayed sleep phase disorder (DSP). This consists of a typical sleep pattern that is “delayed” by two or more hours.

DSP can be a problem if you are frustrated with trying to fall asleep at night. It is also a problem if you have a hard time waking in the morning to get to school or work. The problem is that the rest of the world is structured for the morning person. This is particularly true of many employers. If you work a later shift in the afternoon, then being a night owl likely has little impact on your work or social life.

By Donald R. Townsend, PhD
Updated September 21, 2005