CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED BY SELECTED GRADE 12 STEM HONOR STUDENTS AT GENERAL DE JESUS COLLEGE DUE TO SLEEP DEPRIVATION

Abstract

Sleep deprivation is a common problem among adolescents in today’s society. The primary objective of this study was to determine the challenges encountered by selected honor students due to sleep deprivation. Specifically, the study aimed to identify the participants’ profiles, the challenges they experienced as a result of sleep deprivation, and the coping mechanisms they employed. The researchers utilized a qualitative research method. Semi-structured interviews were conducted for data collection, supported by audio recordings and online interviews. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants. The study focused on fifteen (15) Grade 12 STEM honor students at General De Jesus College who experienced challenges related to sleep deprivation. The majority of the participants were seventeen (17) years old, and most were female. The findings showed that most participants had high honors and reported sleeping an average of zero (0) to three (3) hours. The study revealed that challenges encountered due to sleep deprivation included impaired cognitive function, decreased academic performance, and health-related issues. The results also indicated that the participants’ coping mechanisms involved time management, listening to music, taking naps, and consuming caffeine. The findings demonstrated that sleep deprivation negatively affects cognitive function, academic performance, and the overall well-being of the participants. Overall, this study may help students become more aware of and minimize the challenges caused by sleep deprivation.