Does technology that helps you sleep deeper lead to better work performance? Organizational psychologists looked at how wearing a special acoustical stimulation device can improve sleep quality, rather than duration, and positive work outcomes. Researchers examined 80 full-time employees over a four-week period. The employees received acoustic stimulation headband devices that detected the person’s own deep, slow sleep brain noises and played them back in a loop while they slept, enhancing their deep sleep. Half the time, the same devices remained silent. Participants daily filled out after-sleep and after-work surveys. Results? Using this device improved their sleep quality. When the devices gave deep sleep acoustical feedback, people (mean age 31) not only slept better but also engaged more and performed better at work! However, the headband worked better for younger employees. As we age, our brains have fewer deep sleep waves. This research shows that technology has the potential to improve sleep quality which improves performance. If you are having trouble sleeping or feel tired at work, seek professional help! This device worked better for some than others but showed that good sleep is important! Don’t let poor quality sleep hinder your performance. Reference: Barnes, C. M., Guarana, C., Lee, J., & Kaur, E. (2023). Using wearable technology (closed loop acoustic stimulation) to improve sleep quality and work outcomes. Journal of Applied Psychology, 108(8), 1391–1407. https://doi.org/10.1037/apl0001077

Written by Jarret Bain B.S.