Circadian Rhythms of University Students During Study and Exam Periods

Year 2024, Volume: 2 Issue: 3, 80 - 86, 31.12.2024

Emine Baran , Kevser Yapar Erdem Başer

Abstract

Purpose
Circadian rhythms play a critical role in maintaining physiological and psychological balance. University students often experience disruptions in these rhythms due to academic demands, particularly during exam periods. This study examines the impact of study and exam periods on circadian rhythms, sleep quality, physical activity, psychological well-being, and autonomic functions.
Method
A prospective observational study was conducted with 30 university students (mean age: 21.1 ± 1.7 years; mean BMI: 24.2 ± 7.2). Assessments included the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scale (DASS). Autonomic functions (body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, and skin moisture) were measured in controlled environments during both study and exam periods. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon test with a significance level of p<0.05.
Results
Students shifted toward evening chronotypes during exams (p<0.001) and exhibited poorer sleep quality (p<0.001), reduced physical activity (p<0.001), and increased depression, anxiety, and stress levels (p=0.04). Significant increases in systolic (p=0.006) and diastolic blood pressure (p=0.028) and heart rate (p=0.014) were observed during exams, while body temperature, oxygen saturation, and skin moisture remained unchanged.
Conclusion
Academic demands significantly disrupt circadian rhythms, sleep quality, and psychological well-being, with notable physiological stress responses during exams. Physical activity plays a crucial role in mitigating these effects. Interventions promoting sleep hygiene, stress management, and regular physical activity are essential for enhancing academic performance and safeguarding long-term health in university students.

Keywords

Circadian rhythm, sleep quality, physical activity, academic stress, autonomic functions

Project Number

1919B012304535

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