@article{ref1,
title="Associations of time spent on homework or studying with nocturnal sleep behavior and depression symptoms in adolescents from Singapore",
journal="Sleep health",
year="2020",
author="Yeo, Sing Chen and Tan, Jacinda and Lo, June C. and Chee, Michael W. L. and Gooley, Joshua J.",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="OBJECTIVE: To investigate associations of adolescents' time spent on homework/studying with nocturnal time for sleep and depression symptoms, in a competitive academic environment.   DESIGN: Cross-sectional, anonymous survey of sleep habits, school life, and health-related measures.  SETTING: Eight schools in Singapore.  PARTICIPANTS: Total 1225 adolescents aged 13-19 years.   MEASUREMENTS: Self-reported sleep behavior and time use data were collected separately for school days and weekends. Multiple regression models were used to test covariation of time spent on homework/studying with other activities, and associations of homework/studying duration with depression symptoms.   RESULTS: Time in bed for sleep and media use were inversely related with homework/studying duration on both school days and weekends, adjusting for time spent on other activities and demographic variables. Face-to-face family time and hanging out with friends were also reciprocally related with homework/studying duration on weekends. Depression scores were higher in adolescents who spent long hours on homework/studying. On school days, this was mediated by reduced time in bed for sleep. On weekends, homework/studying duration associated with depression symptoms, adjusting for time in bed and other covariates. Adolescents who spent ≥5 hours on homework/studying per day on weekends had greater symptoms of anhedonia and anxiety.   CONCLUSIONS: In a competitive academic setting, adolescents who spent more time on homework/studying spent less time on sleep, media use, and social activities. Independent of effects on sleep, long hours on homework/studying on weekends may be a risk factor for depression. Reducing adolescents' workload outside of class may benefit their sleep, schoolwork-life balance, and mental well-being.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="2352-7218",
doi="10.1016/j.sleh.2020.04.011",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.sleh.2020.04.011"
}