EFFECTS OF SLEEP DEPRIVATION ON GRADE 12 STEM ACADEMIC ACHIEVERS AT GENERAL DE JESUS COLLEGE

Abstract

Sleep deprivation is a significant issue faced by Grade 12 STEM academic achievers at General De Jesus College. Inadequate sleep among students directly affects academic performance, examination outcomes, and overall grades. This study aimed to address a research gap concerning sleep deprivation among high-achieving Grade 12 STEM students and to examine its effects on their academic and personal lives. Additionally, the study analyzed the coping strategies employed by these students to manage sleep deprivation. This study utilized a descriptive research design. A qualitative approach was employed to gather data through semi-structured, face-to-face interviews supported by audio recordings. Participants were selected using purposive sampling, with eleven (11) Grade 12 STEM academic achievers included in the study. Survey questionnaires were also distributed to support data collection. The findings revealed that the participants experienced significant effects of sleep deprivation. Among the eleven participants, most were eighteen (18) years old and reported experiencing sleep deprivation due to academic workload. Both male and female students were affected. The results indicated that Grade 12 STEM academic achievers typically obtained only six (6) hours of sleep per night, with students receiving high honors being the most affected. Participants reported negative consequences such as lack of sleep, difficulty focusing, staying up late at night, and increased sensitivity during class. The majority of participants identified time management as the most effective coping strategy for managing sleep deprivation. The study showed that many academic achievers experienced predominantly negative effects of sleep deprivation, including headaches, slow cognitive processing, irritability, and mood changes. Time management emerged as the primary coping mechanism used by students to mitigate these effects. The findings emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the adverse consequences of sleep deprivation and encouraging healthier sleep practices among academic achievers.