Morningness–eveningness preferences in Portuguese adolescents: Adaptation and psychometric validity of the H&O questionnaire

Abstract

Throughout development individuals vary in their circadian preferences. One of the most notable changes occurs during adolescence when individuals tend to become progressively more evening-oriented. This is a critical age period to be studied given that eveningness preferences seem to relate with physical, psychological and social problems, whereas the most morning-oriented individuals tend to be protected against these problems. The aim of this study was to adapt and present the psychometric validity of the Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire (Horne & Östberg, 1976) to Portuguese adolescents (12–14 years old). To this end, 300 adolescents responded to the questionnaire which was initially translated, re-translated, and then subject to a think-aloud procedure. Overall, the psychometric measures were positive. We found no significant effect of sex on the circadian preferences and a tendency for increased eveningness as age progresses, especially in males. We discuss our results in light of the existing literature.