Project
The restorative effect of daytime naps.
Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) is a significant problem for many
people. EDS can be associated with rotating/irregular sleep-wake schedules
(for example during shift work) and is a major and disabling symptom of
sleep disorders like Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Narcolepsy. Not only
do these groups of individuals experience increased objective and subjective
sleepiness, changes in mood and declines in cognitive and psycho-motor
ability are also common. Napping has been suggested by several researchers
as a potential countermeasure against these detrimental effects.
The majority of research however, has not yet considered the benefits
of napping for individuals who regularly nap or the benefits of a set
time to nap compared to allowing subjects to nap when they feel particularly
sleepy. The use of napping as a treatment for the EDS associated with
Narcolepsy has only been minimally investigated by researchers. My research
will focus on these areas while contributing to the existing literature
on the effects of daytime naps. |
Additional Research Interests
I am also interested in the characteristics of people who choose to regularly
nap compared to people who do not nap. I will also investigate this as part
of my research. In addition to napping I am also interested in the areas
of circadian rhythms, the impacts of sleep disturbance on daily functioning
and more broadly, the sleep disorders which affect adults and adolescents. |
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Contact Details
School of Psychology
Flinders University of South Australia
GPO Box 2100
Adelaide, South Australia 5001
Office: 222 Social Sciences North
Phone: (+61 8) 8201 7920
Fax: (+61 8) 8201 3877
Email: nicole.lovato@flinders.edu.au
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