Polish studies find sleep improves grades and positive reinforcement reduces procrastination

A study by researchers at the University of California (Davis) using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) project found that high‑quality sleep is the strongest lifestyle factor linked to better academic performance and stronger peer relationships among adolescents aged 10‑13. Sleep accounted for 18.5% of the association between depressive symptoms and school grades and over 36% of the link between anxiety and grades, while screen‑time was the second‑most important factor.

A separate investigation by the Institute of Experimental Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, led by Dr Marek Wypych, showed that applying positive emotional reinforcement while tasks are performed significantly reduces procrastination among Polish students. The research, published in Behaviour Research and Therapy, also highlighted that cognitive‑behavioural therapy can improve task engagement. High rates of procrastination were associated with lower grades, reduced earnings and increased mental‑health problems.