The Perceived Effects of Caffeinated Beverage Consumption on the Academic Performance of Senior High School Students in a Private Catholic University

Caffeinated beverages are among the most commonly consumed stimulants by students, who often rely on them to sustain alertness, enhance concentration, and cope with academic demands. The influence of caffeine on the academic performance of senior high school students remains underexplored, warranting further investigation into their perceptions and practices. This study aimed to determine the perceived effects of caffeinated beverage consumption on the academic performance of senior high school students in a private Catholic university, focusing on differences across demographic and behavioral factors such as sex, sleep duration, preferred beverage, quantity and timing of consumption, and academic standing. It also examined the relationship between these perceptions and academic performance, while identifying the primary factors influencing consumption. The study employed a descriptive-comparative correlational design and involved 103 Grade 11 and Grade 12 students of Saint Mary’s University Senior High School, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed through descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s R correlation, and thematic analysis. The results revealed that most students perceive caffeine as having a moderate impact on their academic performance. Differences emerged depending on how much they slept and the type of drink they preferred, with energy drinks showing the least benefits. A small but meaningful connection was also found between students’ perceived caffeine effects and their actual grades. When asked why they drank caffeinated beverages, students often pointed to schoolwork pressure, personal state, and emotional stress. Overall, the findings imply that while caffeine can help students with academic tasks, real success relies more on practicing good study habits and using caffeine responsibly. It is recommended that students be encouraged to manage their caffeine intake wisely, prioritize adequate sleep, and develop healthier coping strategies for academic pressures. Keywords: Senior high school students, caffeinated beverage, academic performance, alertness, concentration, and stimulants.