If you close the bedroom door when you sleep, psychology says you’re this type of person

The world can often be divided into opposing camps: beach or mountains, tortilla with or without onions, movies or series – just to name a few. But those aren’t the only divides. Some are far more unexpected. One of the quirkiest? Whether you sleep with the door open or closed.

Open or closed door while sleeping?

In summer, this debate tends to disappear – unless you have air conditioning. On sweltering tropical nights, keeping the door open becomes a near-necessity, even if only to stir the hot air drifting in from the window. But behind this seemingly mundane habit lies something deeper.

Or so psychology suggests. The first idea that comes to mind is that it’s about intimacy, privacy, and a sense of security in one’s own space. But there’s more to it. According to the Greek outlet Enikos, people who sleep with the door closed often share six key traits.

The first has to do with a desire for personal security – not just physical, but mental too. It’s about feeling in control and having a clear boundary that shields you from potential outside interference, as explained by psychologist Abraham Maslow. Closing the door is a way of fulfilling the human need for safety.

Next comes an appreciation for solitude. Shutting the door symbolizes a retreat inward, a moment to enjoy one’s own company. It represents a kind of separation from the outside world – a quiet space for thought. In that sense, it’s a search for personal space.

The third trait is linked to introversion. Personality plays a role in how we sleep, too. But this isn’t necessarily about being shy or antisocial. It’s more about how we recharge. Closing the door at night becomes a way to create a peaceful zone for self-reflection.

Self-care, independence and freedom

Self-care is another of the psychological traits associated with this habit. Closely related to the others, closing the door helps create a protected, secure environment – free from the worries of the outside world. According to a study by the National Institute of Mental Health, these kinds of self-care routines can reduce stress and improve mental health.

Then there’s the question of independence. Shutting the door asserts personal autonomy – your space is yours alone, and you decide who enters it. And finally, there’s the pursuit of freedom, even if that might seem contradictory. With one simple gesture, you carve out a space where you can fully be yourself, free from outside pressures.

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