College
Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences
Date of Last Revision
2023-05-04 05:02:22
Major
Biomedical Science
Honors Course
3100-499-002
Number of Credits
2
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Date of Expected Graduation
Spring 2021
Abstract
Circadian rhythms involve the natural 24 wake-sleep cycle that governs proper maintenance of biological sleep schedules. Circadian rhythm disruption has been associated with health issues such as diabetes, obesity, and mental health disorders such as bipolar and sleep disorders. In this study, a survey method was utilized in order to analyze specific population demographics to determine whether working day or night shifts predisposed individuals to health issues due to disruptions in their circadian rhythms. This study was also carried out to observe popular coping strategies among night shift workers. Of all the variables tested comparing the difference between day and night shift workers, all came back insignificant, with P values greater than the α = 0.05. Results are as followed; Uninterrupted sleep (P = 0.390), average hours of sleep (P=0.190), weight (P=0.270), depression (P=0.300), and hopelessness (P=0.051). General trends were also developed based upon analyzing the data. There was a range of coping strategies employed by the night shift workers. However, the most popular strategy was for night shift workers to eat snacks during their respective shifts. In conclusion, the hypothesis posed for this study could not be supported based upon the results gathered.
Research Sponsor
Dr. Jennifer Tehan Stanley
First Reader
Toni Bisconti
Second Reader
Tilak Khanal
Honors Faculty Advisor
Brian Bagatto
Recommended Citation
Rajan, Sahil, "Analysis of Circadian Rhythm Irregularities on the Health of Shift Workers" (2021). Williams Honors College, Honors Research Projects. 1284.
https://ideaexchange.uakron.edu/honors_research_projects/1284
Included in
Biological Psychology Commons, Cellular and Molecular Physiology Commons, Community Health Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons