Habitual light exposure relative to circadian timing in delayed sleep-wake phase disorder

Individuals with delayed sleep-wake phase disorder (DSWPD) exhibited a later light-exposure pattern compared to age-matched controls.

• Light exposure for individuals with DSWPD occurred later relative to clock time.
• When compared to melatonin onset timing, DSWPD individuals showed earlier light-exposure patterns.
• DSWPD participants had less daily light exposure that promoted an earlier sleep phase compared to controls.
• The main difference was in the late part of the advancing window, where DSWPD individuals received fewer light pulses of similar duration and intensity.
• Diminished advancing light exposure may contribute to the ongoing issues with delayed sleep-wake timing in DSWPD.

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