If you're an adult who still sleeps with a stuffed animal, you're not alone. A 2017 survey by Build-A-Bear and Atomik Research found that 40% of adults cuddle up with a plush toy every night. Over half of respondents also indicated that their stuffed nighttime companion dates back to childhood.
Sleep psychologists have an explanation for why so many adults find comfort in sleeping with a stuffed animal. It all boils down to reducing anxiety. "Many bedrooms have turned into offices, gyms, and home schools, which can create a negative association between our increased stress level and the place we sleep," a psychologist explains. She added, "And sometimes we feel solace by simply having our favorite go-to items nearby."
Pediatric psychologist Kevin C. Smith also weighs in on the phenomenon, stating, "For children, transitional objects such as a blanket, teddy bear, or doll can provide comfort as they transition from dependence to independence at night." This childhood ritual follows us into adulthood and brings us the same sense of security.
Not only does sleeping with a stuffed animal bring us comfort and reduce our anxiety at bedtime, but it can also have a positive effect on our quality of sleep. Best Mattress Brand surveyed 2,000 Americans and discovered that people who slept with a stuffed animal as children were less likely to snore as adults, a reduction of 38%. Conversely, nearly 50% of respondents who had never slept with a stuffed animal snore as adults. So while adults going to bed with stuffed animals may help with sleeping, is it a healthy behavior?
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