What was the primary focus of Storms and Nisbett's (1970) insomnia study?

The primary focus of Storms and Nisbett's insomnia study was to investigate how different reactions to sleep medications could affect individuals’ perceptions of their insomnia. They examined the psychological aspects of insomnia by highlighting how the expectations and beliefs people hold about sleep can influence their actual sleep experiences. This study contributed to the understanding that insomnia is not solely a physiological condition but can also be shaped by cognitive and emotional factors.

By emphasizing the interaction between medication and belief systems, the study illustrated the role that psychological elements play in sleep issues. For example, the expectation of improvement when taking a medication could lead to better sleep, regardless of its actual efficacy. Understanding these reactions is crucial because it expands the narrative surrounding insomnia treatment beyond just pharmaceutical interventions.