0187 Using the Theory of Planned Behavior to Assess Sleep Intentions and Behaviors of Collegiate Athletes

Abstract

Introduction Despite the freedom typically associated with college, many collegiate athletes have large commitments to their sport on a weekly basis and tend to get poor sleep. The purpose of this study is to utilize the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) to predict the sleep intentions and behaviors of undergraduate student athletes. Methods Full-time student varsity athletes were recruited to complete a structured interview and surveys including the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), the Athlete Sleep Behavior Questionnaire (ASBQ), and a customized TPB survey consisting of 7 items to measure attitudes, cultural norms, perceived behavioral control and behavioral intentions regarding sleep. The ESS, ASBQ, and TPB constructs (attitudes, cultural norms, perceived behavioral control) were tested for their predictive value in relationship to self-reported sleep behavior. Results Preliminary results demonstrate that student athletes with knowledge of the importance of sleep and high perceived behavioral control over their sleep had better sleep quality and lower daytime sleepiness than student athletes with decreased self-efficacy regarding control of their schedules. Conclusion Results from statistical tests will demonstrate the areas that correlate the most with sleep intentions and behavior and help to provide a road map for addressing these areas in student athletes in the future. This information will help those who support athletes (coaches, trainers, sport psychologists) to better understand what contributes to their sleep behavior and make changes moving forward to positively impact performance and overall well-being. Support (If Any) Support for this project is provided by the University of St. Thomas Collaborative Inquiry Grant program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]