Graduate Program
College Student Affairs
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Semester of Degree Completion
2012
Thesis Director
Charles Eberly
Thesis Committee Member
Eric Davidson
Thesis Committee Member
Richard Roberts
Abstract
The negative effects of poor sleep habits have been widely studied, although there is little research focusing on the academic impact that poor sleep has among the college student population, where poor sleep seems to be prevalent. Research studies have consistently documented that sleep difficulties and daytime tiredness affect more than half of college students. Daytime naps, pulling "all-nighter" cram sessions, and late bedtimes and rise times are just a few of the common scenarios that deeply disturb the sleep quality and quantity of college students. The American Sleep Association (2007) has shown that sleep is necessary for survival in animals and absolutely essential to humans for support in their daily functioning. This study sought to examine the relationship between sleep patterns and academic performance of college students in a mid-size state university setting in east-central Illinois. Through a quantitative study, the student's sleep quantity and sleep quality were examined in relation to their academic performance, measured by grade point average and other self-reported factors that are considered crucial for academic success, such as attending class. Although the findings of the present study did not show a great deal of statistical significance, it should be noted that statistically significant differences were found in grade point average among the short, average and long sleepers. These findings could serve as a guide for additional research on the target population. Findings could also potentially equip student affairs professionals with valuable information to assist them in the development and implementation of a sleep hygiene education program for students in an effort to improve their overall health and academic performance.
Recommended Citation
Hedges, Jennifer M., "Sleeping the way to success: Examining the relationship between sleep and academic success among college students" (2012). Masters Theses. 1050.
https://thekeep.eiu.edu/theses/1050
