RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SLEEP PATTERNS AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN MAKURDI, BENUE STATE

Abstract

This research explores the relationship between sleep patterns and academic performance among senior secondary school students in Makurdi, Benue State. Two research objectives, and two hypotheses guided the study. The study employs a correlational survey design. The population of the study consisted of six thousand seven hundred and sixty-three (6763) public senior secondary school students in Makurdi, Benue state. Simple random sampling was used to select 300 students from 15 senior secondary schools in Makurdi. The sample size was taking using the research advisor (2006) table of sample selection. Data was collected using two standardized instruments: Sleep Patterns and Academic Performance Questionnaire (SPAAPQ) and students’ average scores from the most recent term results was used as academic performance. Descriptive and inferential statistics was used to analyze the data. Result review that positive moderate correlation exists (r = 0.41, p < 0.05) between sleep patterns and academic performance. Result shows a statistically significant difference in academic performance between students with regular sleep patterns and those with irregular sleep patterns (t = 3.79, p = 0.000). the findings emphasis the need for schools, parents, and policymakers to prioritize student sleep health as part of academic support strategies. Encouraging consistent bedtimes, reducing screen time before sleep, and educating students on the benefits of proper sleep may significantly improve academic performance and general well-being.