Chronotype, Sleep Pattern and Use of Bedtime E-devices Among High School Student-Athletes

High school student-athletes are at risk of sleep disturbances due to a shift in circadian rhythms that delay their bedtimes and wake up times. The present study aimed to investigate sleep patterns, sleep loss, social jetlag, sleep quality, sleep disturbance and time spent on electronic devices (E-devices) at bedtime in high school student-athletes of different chronotypes. A total of 158 high school athletes ( M = 17.4 years old, standard deviation [ SD ] = 0.64) from five schools in Singapore completed the Munich Chronotype Questionnaire, and additional questions on use of bedtime electronic devices, chronotype, sleep quality and frequency of staying up late. Multiple two-way multivariate analysis of variances and a two-way analysis of variance were conducted to examine the differences between chronotype (Morning, Intermediate and Evening) and gender. School student-athletes reported (mean [ SD ]) 5:36 (1:07) hr of sleep on school days and 7:58 (1:33) hr on free days. No student-athletes slept >8 hr and 23% slept <5 hr during school days. Student-athletes with an evening chronotype had later bedtime, sleep onset during school days and free days, as well as higher sleep loss, social jetlag, frequency of staying up late and use of bedtime E-devices. No gender differences were found. The findings highlight the need for schools to prioritise the implementation of sleep hygiene awareness programmes specifically tailored for high school student-athletes. By addressing these issues, schools can help improve the overall well-being and performance of their student-athletes.