The Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Function of University Students

Sleep is vital for college students, directly influencing their cognitive, emotional, and physical health, which are crucial for academic success and overall well-being. Sleep deprivation affects memory consolidation, learning, focus, problem-solving, and decision-making, all of which are essential for retaining knowledge, applying it in assignments, and excelling academically. By strengthening neural connections, adequate sleep enhances critical thinking and productivity, while its absence leads to reduced concentration and impaired cognitive performance. Sleep deprivation tends to affect multiple areas of the brain in regard to neural activity, alertness, and cognitive function. Our investigation examines the impact of sleep deprivation on undergraduate cognitive function through a literature review, focusing on its effects on the hippocampus, amygdala, and cerebral cortex. The literature used for this review was derived from multiple research sources including PubMed and JSTOR. Research shows an inverse relationship between sleep deprivation and cognitive function, with significant reductions in brain activity in these regions as measured by various cognitive tests. College institutions often exacerbate sleep deprivation with demanding schedules, late-night study expectations, early morning classes, and environments that encourage irregular sleep patterns, such as 24/7 libraries and social activities. To further this research, we aim to study a sample of students at the University of South Florida by administering questionnaires to explore sleeping habits, factors contributing to sleep deprivation, and natural ways to improve sleep. This research seeks to guide interventions that enhance cognitive function and promote healthier sleep habits among students.