Academic Procrastination And Stimulating Substance Use Among College Undergraduates

Today’s college students have a larger workload than past generations and are expected to work at a faster pace, all while adjusting to a new environment. Some students are able to successfully navigate these demands, while others become overwhelmed and engage in behaviors that allow them a diversion from academics and school life, such as avoidance and procrastination. When students procrastinate, they may find themselves with a lot to do in a short period of time. Past work indicates that stimulating substance use is on the rise among college students, particularly when they need to have focused periods of concentration. This study examined the association between academic procrastination and use of stimulating substances (caffeine, energy drinks, energy products, and prescription stimulants) through quantitative measures. Data were taken from a sample of UND undergraduates. Results showed that who reported higher levels of academic procrastination were more likely to use any stimulating substance to stay awake, alert, or energetic. It was also seen that male students were more likely to use energy products, and energy drinks