Masters Thesis

Exercise vs. consistent sleep-wake schedule: a sleep hygiene feasibility study

College students are known to have inconsistent schedules. The variability of their schedules may contribute to the sleeplessness that plagues college campuses. Though there are several organizations that provide sleep hygiene recommendations, these recommendations may not be feasible for the average college student. This study aimed to assess and compare the feasibility of two sleep hygiene recommendations: exercise and a consistent sleep-wake schedule. Using a mixed-methods approach, the primary purpose was to assess the feasibility of exercise and a consistent sleep-wake schedule. Participants recorded bedtime, wake time, time it took to fall asleep, sleep quality, changes in their schedules, and reflections about the sleep hygiene recommendations in a sleep journal. Secondarily, participants’ sleep was assessed via surveys and recorded sleep times. Quantitative and qualitative outcomes from this study suggest exercise should be promoted as a feasible sleep hygiene recommendation for college students. Exercise can help college students achieve sufficient and effective sleep, and may have other positive benefits in their daily lives. The promotion of exercise, as well as other sleep hygiene recommendations, should be led by college campuses. It is imperative that researchers, colleges and universities, and sleep organizations, continue to emphasize the importance of sleep, especially for college students. This responsibility comes with research, education, and feasible recommendations for the college population.

Relationships

In Collection:

Items in ScholarWorks are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.