Cy's Data Lab

By Cy Seeley, M.S. Student, Applied Data Science, Syracuse University

Abstract

This study investigates the interplay between student behaviors, mental health, and academic performance in college students, using a dataset sourced from Kaggle. Key predictors analyzed include sleep duration, depression status, class engagement, and social interactions. Our findings indicate that students who get more sleep and actively engage in class tend to perform better academically, underscoring the importance of healthy behaviors for academic success. Depression was notably linked to reduced sleep, which may indirectly affect performance. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, t-tests, and chi-square tests, reveal significant relationships that highlight the importance of fostering positive habits and mental well-being to support academic achievement. Recommendations for future research are provided to explore additional factors and longitudinal trends.

Introduction

Academic performance is a crucial aspect of a student’s life, often determining future opportunities and career paths. Understanding the factors that influence academic success can help educators and administrators develop interventions to support students more effectively. Numerous studies suggest that student behaviors, such as class participation, sleep habits, and social engagement, as well as mental health factors like depression and anxiety, play significant roles in shaping academic outcomes.

Mental health challenges among college students have risen sharply in recent years, which has drawn attention to the potential impact of mental health on academic performance. Depression, in particular, has been linked to diminished motivation, poor concentration, and reduced energy levels, all of which can hinder academic success. Given the increasing prevalence of mental health issues in academic settings, understanding how these factors relate to academic performance is essential for fostering supportive and productive learning environments.

This study investigates the relationship between various behavioral, social, and mental health factors with academic performance among college students. The goal is to identify key predictors that may help universities develop support structures that encourage both academic success and overall well-being.

Key Findings

• Sleep Patterns: Higher sleep duration is a strong positive predictor of academic performance, aligning with existing research that highlights the role of adequate sleep in cognitive functioning and academic achievement.
• Class Engagement: Active engagement through note-taking in class correlates with higher academic success, underscoring the value of interactive and attentive learning strategies.
• Mental Health and Sleep: Depression status is associated with significantly lower sleep hours, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health as part of student support systems to enhance overall well-being and academic outcomes.

Conclusion

The results of this study underscore the importance of supporting behaviors that positively impact academic performance among college students. Adequate sleep and active class participation emerged as significant predictors of academic success, suggesting that these behaviors can enhance cognitive functioning and focus. While depression status did not directly correlate with lower academic performance in this sample, its association with reduced sleep highlights a potential indirect pathway by which mental health challenges could hinder academic outcomes over time.

To promote student success, universities could consider implementing wellness programs that encourage healthy sleep habits and increase engagement in class. For instance, workshops on time management and stress reduction could help students prioritize rest, while promoting active learning strategies like note-taking may foster greater academic engagement. Additionally, mental health services and peer support groups can be instrumental in helping students manage depression, which may indirectly support better academic performance by improving overall well-being.

Link to the Paper