Lack of Sleep and its Effect on the Classroom Behavior of Senior High School Students in ETTMNHS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Sleep is a state in which the body and mind of an individual are relatively inactive, and its muscles are relaxed. In the human body, sleep aids all cognitive functions such as memory, learning, decision making, and critical thinking. Sleep is also said to be a physiological adaption to conserve energy with enough sleep, an individual can function better and the condition of which an individual suffers from lack of sleep is called sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation can result in weight gain, dysfunction in cognitive ability, and even life-threatening health risks. However, based on observations, most students lack sleep. As a response, this study focused on the effects of lack of sleep on the behavior of senior high school students inside the classroom.

METHODS

The population considered for this research study includes 50 senior high school students. Respondents were chosen according to their own experience or based on their understanding about lack of sleep. Random sampling was utilized using Gay's Guidelines where 50 student respondents were required.

RESULTS

The study revealed that most of the respondents strongly agreed that they feel that their academic performance is hindered, they are unable to focus during exams and they find it hard to stay awake and focused during their classes due to lack of sleep. Moreover, they often find themselves cramming for most of their exams. In terms of classroom behavior, lack of sleep results to the respondents feeling often irritable and have less motivation through the day. Majority of the respondents also strongly agreed that they experience clumsiness or awkward movements and feel that they have less energy during their classes.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the results of the study, Grade 11, and Grade 12 students of ETTMNHS mostly experience lack of sleep. This is often caused by the excessive use of mobile phones and the time spent on social media. Because of this, the study recommends that the school initiates programs that discuss the negative effects of lack of sleep on to one's health and students' poor classroom performance and behavior. Likewise, students themselves shall be conscious of insufficient sleep's harmful effects on an individual's body so they may develop good sleeping habits.