Caffeine Consumption, Perceived Dependence, Cognitive Effects, and Sleep Patterns among Adolescents and Adults: A Survey Study

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.23491430

Amitoz Kaur¹ and Balneet Kaur² (Yadavindra Public School, Mohali, Punjab¹ and GNCE, GGSIPU, MA Psychology, MEd., UGC NET (Education)²)

Caffeine is the most commonly consumed stimulant in the world. Although there is ongoing debate about whether its consumption is driven by addiction or habit, understanding the patterns of caffeine intake and its perceived effects is necessary. This study aimed to investigate caffeine consumption habits among adolescents and adults and analyse the patterns in the quantity and timing of consumption, motivations for use, perceived effects, and withdrawal symptoms. It also sought to assess whether caffeine dependence resembles habitual behaviour or compulsive addiction. This study collected data from 115 participants using an online survey. The questionnaire gathered the required information. The findings revealed that tea was the most commonly consumed caffeinated beverage, while habit was the primary motivation. Most participants reported consuming caffeine as part of their daily routine rather than due to complete dependence. Withdrawal symptoms, when experienced, were reported to be mild and were more commonly reported among individuals with higher caffeine intake. The effects of a given dosage of caffeine may vary among individuals due to differences in genetic and physical composition. Overall, the study concluded that caffeine is a mild psychostimulant when consumed in moderation and produces relatively weak withdrawal effects compared to narcotics and alcohol.