The Effects of 24-Hour Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive and Motor Skills of Male College Students

Introduction: Sleep deprivation is known to adversely affect cognitive and motor performance, yet its specific impact on male college students remains underexplored, particularly in an Indian context.Aims: This study aims to assess the acute effects of 24-hour sleep deprivation on the cognitive and motor skills of male college students in India.Materials and Methods: This observational study was conducted in the East West Institute Of Medical Sciences And Research, Burdwan – Suri Road, Talit, Purba Barddhaman – 713141, over a period of one year from February 2024 to January 2025. The study involved a sample of 100 male college students, selected to evaluate relevant clinical or behavioural parameters within this demographic.Result: After 24-hour sleep deprivation, the experimental group showed significantly slower choice reaction time (435.7 ± 80.4 ms vs. 373.9 ± 63.5 ms, p = 0.01) and lower working memory performance at N=1 (98.6 ± 17.9 vs. 105.4 ± 8.3, p = 0.03). Selective attention improved significantly post-test (p < 0.001). Significant differences were observed in retention phases for observational and mental tasks (p = 0.001 - 0.002).Conclusion: This study found that 24-hour sleep deprivation impaired cognitive functions in male college students, especially in choice reaction time, working memory, and divided attention. The experimental group performed slower in these areas, though selective attention improved post-test. Physical and combined control tasks were not significantly affected. Overall, sleep deprivation primarily impacted cognitive skills with minimal effects on physical performance.