Does the chronotype classification need to be updated? Preliminary findings

Chronobiol Int. 2010 Jul;27(6):1329-34. doi: 10.3109/07420528.2010.490314.

Abstract

Traditionally, chronotype classification is based on the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ). It is implicit in the classification that intermediate individuals get intermediate scores to most of the MEQ questions. However, a small group of individuals has a different pattern of answers. In some questions, they answer as "morning-types" and in some others they answer as "evening-types," resulting in an intermediate total score. "Evening-type" and "Morning-type" answers were set as A(1) and A(4), respectively. Intermediate answers were set as A(2) and A(3). The following algorithm was applied: Bimodality Index = (Sigma A(1) x Sigma A(4))(2) - (Sigma A(2) x Sigma A(3))(2). Neither-types that had positive bimodality scores were classified as bimodal. If our hypothesis is validated by objective data, an update of chronotype classification will be required.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Algorithms
  • Animals
  • Brazil
  • Circadian Rhythm*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Models, Biological
  • Models, Statistical
  • Photoperiod
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult