Co-sleeping trends vary widely across cultures, influencing cultural expectations. In the West, more emphasis is placed on raising independence, where children often sleep in separate rooms from an early age. In contrast, South Asian cultures generally support co-sleeping between parents and children during infancy. This practice has deep evolutionary roots, as humans evolved to sleep next to others for warmth and safety. It is interesting that such behavior during sleep is also influenced by those who are nearby.
A study published in Trends in Ecology and Evolution found that animals that sleep in groups show similar sleep patterns shaped by their surroundings, as mice in groups synchronize their rapid eye movement (REM). Gaffredina Spano and Gina Mason at The Conversation have been exploring this co-sleeping behavior for centuries.
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Co-sleeping in babies
The understanding of parent-infant co-sleeping is mixed due to the different perspectives of Western and Eastern cultures. In South America, Asia and Africa, it is common for parents to sleep with their babies. Evolutionary researchers and scientists have clarified the evolutionary history of humans sleeping with their babies to keep them safe and protected. In addition to safety, proponents of co-sleeping believe that it will strengthen the bond with the child, preserve the child’s emotional and mental health, and relieve stress with the constant presence of a caregiver.
In contrast, Western societies often emphasize the independence of young children and express concern about sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), one of the main risks associated with co-sleeping. For this reason, many experts do not recommend co-sleeping. Organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that babies sleep next to their parents, but on a separate surface, to reduce the risk of SIDS. However, some researchers offer an alternative view, noting that co-sleeping can lead to easier sleep and more frequent feedings, which can help babies wake more often and have better breathing control.
Joint sleep in childhood
Co-sleeping in childhood is also very common. Co-sleeping between siblings in childhood is also very common. Co-sleeping is especially beneficial for children with autism, anxiety disorders or chronic health problems. It is difficult for them to fall asleep with such conditions. Co-sleeping causes autism, anxiety disorders or chronic health problems and they fall asleep more easily.
Co-sleeping in adulthood
Co-sleeping is very common for couples, but it’s not always associated with intimacy and romance. In heterosexual relationships, women often experience poorer sleep quality and greater disturbances from their partner’s movements. While many couples report feeling more rested when they sleep in the same bed, co-sleeping can sometimes lead to less deep sleep compared to sleeping alone.
The researchers focused on improving sleep quality rather than following cultural trends. They emphasized that the sleep environment should be shaped and adapted to personal needs and preferences. Likewise, co-sleeping should be approached based on individual needs and comfort, not social norms.
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