Medical Oddities: The Economics of Shut-Eye - Report - MDSpire

Medical Oddities: The Economics of Shut-Eye

  • By

  • Teraya Smith

  • June 11, 2026

  • 6 min

Share

Clinical Report: The Economics of Shut-Eye

Overview

A study from Brigham Young University evaluated how much individuals value sleep, revealing that older age correlates with lower compensation demands for sleep sacrifice, while higher-income individuals expect greater compensation.

Background

Understanding the economic value individuals place on sleep is crucial, as sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. This study highlights the variability in sleep valuation among different demographics.

Data Highlights

The study involved 455 adults across the continental US, with a mean age of 45 years and 53% female participants. The Monetary Sleep Value Questionnaire (MSVQ) was utilized to assess participants' valuation of sleep.

Key Findings

  • Older age predicted lower compensation demands for sacrificing sleep.
  • Higher-income individuals expected greater compensation for sleep deprivation.
  • Participants with a 'Sleep Devalue' profile were willing to give up sleep for less money.
  • Those in a 'Sleep Appreciate' profile were willing to pay more for improvements in sleep quality.
  • The MSVQ is a psychometrically sound measure for capturing the personal monetary value of sleep.

Clinical Implications

The findings provide insights into patient attitudes towards sleep and its economic implications.

Conclusion

The study reveals significant differences in sleep valuation based on age, income, and personal beliefs.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Brigham Young University, Sleep, 2023 -- The Economics of Shut-Eye
  2. Optometric Management — BUSINESS: MERCHANDISING
  3. Intensive Care Medicine — Exploring the Relationship Between Night Shifts, Human Factors, and ICU Errors: Is There a Causal Link?
  4. Optometric Management — The Medical Economics of Dry Eye
  5. Contact Lens Spectrum — Solving Sleepless Nights With Scleral Lenses
  6. Short Sleep Duration and Sleep Difficulties Among Adults: United States, 2024
  7. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia in People With Chronic Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis | Sleep Medicine | JAMA Internal Medicine | JAMA Network
  8. Lifetime burden of prescription medication for insomnia in middle-aged and older adults in the US: a microsimulation study - ScienceDirect

Original Source(s)

Related Content