Late-Night Scrolling Reveals Personality Traits, Says Psychologist

Psychologist Dr. Stefanie Mazer has shed light on how late-night social media habits can reflect deeper aspects of an individual’s personality. Her insights suggest that bedtime phone usage, including the type of content consumed and the patterns of interaction, can reveal significant traits related to mindset and work ethic.

According to Dr. Mazer, many individuals ignore recommendations to avoid screens for one to two hours before sleeping. Instead, they engage in various scrolling behaviors that illustrate their internal worlds more accurately than traditional personality assessments like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator.

Understanding Different Types of Scrollers

Dr. Mazer categorizes late-night social media users into three distinct types: the FOMO scroller, the compulsive comparer, and the doomscroller. Each group exhibits unique characteristics and motivations.

The **FOMO scroller**, driven by a fear of missing out, often feels a strong need to stay updated about their social environment. “These individuals typically possess high social intelligence and place great value on relationships,” Dr. Mazer explains. “The act of putting down their phones can feel disconcerting, not necessarily due to addiction, but because they struggle with the quietness of stillness.” For many, scrolling serves as a bridge to connectivity and belonging.

In contrast, the **compulsive comparer** frequently falls into a pattern of self-evaluation, especially in the evening. Dr. Mazer notes, “These are often conscientious, high-achieving individuals who set rigorous standards for themselves. As their day winds down, the mental defenses can weaken, leading them to compare their lives with others.” This tendency can foster feelings of inadequacy, particularly when individuals are fatigued and vulnerable.

Lastly, the **doomscroller** is characterized by a tendency to consume distressing news, which can exacerbate stress levels before sleep. Dr. Mazer states, “Doomscrolling often stems from a deep concern for the world. These individuals interpret negative news as threats, keeping their nervous systems on high alert, even when they are exhausted.”

The Psychology Behind Bedtime Scrolling

Dr. Mazer highlights that, despite the varying motivations for scrolling, a common theme is the need for self-regulation. “Almost every form of bedtime phone usage aims to manage internal experiences such as anxiety, loneliness, or mental overload,” she explains. By understanding these underlying motivations, individuals can take steps to modify their habits.

Changing bedtime scrolling patterns does not necessarily require complete abstinence from phone use. Dr. Mazer emphasizes the importance of identifying the reasons behind this behavior. “For some, it might stem from loneliness; for others, a desire for mental stimulation or connection to the outside world. Recognizing these emotional needs can lead to healthier alternatives.”

To foster better habits, Dr. Mazer suggests establishing boundaries. “Setting a clear stopping point, even just ten to fifteen minutes before bed, allows the brain to wind down. Following this with grounding activities, such as reading a familiar book or listening to calming audio, can help reinforce the experience of relaxation.”

Ultimately, Dr. Mazer reassures individuals that guilt should not accompany their bedtime scrolling. “The objective isn’t to eliminate scrolling entirely but to shift away from relying on smartphones as the primary means of emotional regulation at night. When attention is directed toward this shift, the habit can diminish naturally without becoming another source of stress.”

By understanding and adjusting their late-night habits, individuals can pave the way for healthier sleeping patterns and improved overall well-being.