Wired and Tired: Examining the Role of Caffeine and Sleep Behaviors in Shaping Mood and Academic Performance Among Princeton University Students

Abstract

The goal of this thesis was to look at how sleep, caffeine intake, mood, and academic performance are connected among undergraduate students at Princeton University. College students often struggle to get enough sleep and use caffeine to stay awake and focused. The goal of this study was to see if caffeine could help reduce the negative effects of not getting enough sleep on mood and grades. 253 students filled out a survey about their usual sleep patterns, caffeine consumption, mood (using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule—PANAS), and academic performance (self-reported GPA). Results showed that students who slept more tended to have higher GPAs, supporting the idea that good sleep helps academic performance. On the other hand, students who consumed more caffeine generally had lower GPAs, challenging the idea that caffeine improves academic success. Overall, sleep and caffeine did not show strong connections to general mood scores. However, looking more closely, students who got a moderate amount of sleep (6–8 hours per night) and drank moderate amounts of caffeine felt more alert and determined. Students with less sleep or high caffeine intake felt more irritable, nervous, and jittery. Contrary to predictions, caffeine didn't help make up for the negative effects of short sleep on GPA. While caffeine might help with short-term alertness, it doesn't fully replace the cognitive benefits of proper sleep. This study highlights the importance of regular sleep and careful caffeine use for better academic results and emotional well-being.