Open access
TIME UNRAVELLED. SOCIAL JETLAG AS A HIDDEN SOURCE OF FAMILY DYSSYNCHRONY
Katarzyna ZIELIŃSKA-KRÓL1
Publication language: Polish
scientific paper
Transformations No. 3(126)2025, Publication date: 30 September 2025
Keywords: social jetlag, family, chronotype, dyschronisation, stressor, family change, biological time, social time
Abstract The modern rhythm of life, dominated by productivity pressures, shift work, early school hours and intensive use of digital technologies, leads to a growing discrepancy between biological and social clocks – a phenomenon known as social jetlag. This article presents social jetlag as an important factor affecting the functioning of the family as a biological – social system. It discusses the mechanism of the phenomenon, its physiological and psychological consequences, as well as its impact on daily rhythms, relationships and communication within the family. The article is of a theoretical and review nature and is based on an interdisciplinary approach, encompassing the areas of chronobiology, health psychology, family sociology and family science. The main aim of the analysis was to identify and interpret the mechanisms and effects of social jetlag in the context of the functioning of the family as a biological-social system. The article shows that social jetlag – although mainly perceived as an individual phenomenon – has a real systemic dimension, resulting in the disappearance of family rituals, reduced time together and increased intergenerational tensions. It concludes with suggestions for preventive measures and directions for further research. The text has a theoretical and review character and is based on the current literature in chronobiology, health psychology and family sociology. The text fits in with the issue of cultural and civilisational transformations, showing how seemingly individual experience can affect the stability and functionality of the entire family system.
Katedra nauk o rodzinie, Katolicki Uniwersytet Lubelski Jana Pawła II w Lublinie, Polska
ORCID: 0009-0007-7885-2042
E-mail: kzielinska@kul.pl