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The Effect of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Performance in University Students

Authors

Sushma V kerur

M.Sc. Psychology SEM IV (India)

Dhruthi S Prasad

Assistant professor Department of Psychology Centre for Distance Online Education and Virtual Learning JAIN (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru (India)

Article Information

DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI.2025.12120103

Subject Category: Psychology

Volume/Issue: 12/12 | Page No: 1207-1212

Publication Timeline

Submitted: 2025-12-23

Accepted: 2025-12-29

Published: 2026-01-14

Abstract

This study explores the impact of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance, specifically focusing on attention and memory, in university students. A group of 50 undergraduate students will undergo cognitive testing following both a normal sleep cycle and a sleep deprivation condition. It is hypothesized that sleep deprivation will significantly impair cognitive performance, especially in tasks involving memory recall and sustained attention. The results could inform future strategies for improving student performance and mental health in academic settings.

Keywords

sleep deprivation, cognitive performance, attention, memory, university students

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