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January 24, 2025 — A new study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health suggests that daily caffeine consumption exceeding 100 mg among young adolescents is associated with an increase in conduct problems, with daytime sleepiness playing a mediating role.
Study Overview
Researchers analyzed data from 2,633 middle school students across 20 schools in West Virginia to investigate the relationship between caffeine intake, daytime drowsiness, and behavioral issues. The study followed students from the beginning of sixth grade through four assessment waves, each spaced six months apart. Participants self-reported their caffeine consumption, daytime sleepiness, and conduct problems while researchers also collected demographic and family management data.
Key Findings
The study found that adolescents consuming 100 mg or more of caffeine daily were more likely to experience both conduct problems (estimate [Est.], 0.22; P = .015) and increased daytime sleepiness (Est., 0.38; P = .001) compared to those who consumed no caffeine. The researchers also discovered that daytime sleepiness partially mediated the relationship between caffeine intake and conduct problems (Est., 0.22; P = .002). However, caffeine consumption below 100 mg was not associated with increased conduct issues or daytime sleepiness.
Implications for Parents and Educators
The findings reinforce recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), both of which advise that children under 12 years of age should avoid caffeine. “Our analyses revealed a positive association between daily caffeine consumption of 100 mg and growth in conduct problems from ages 11-13 years,” the authors wrote, underscoring the importance of monitoring caffeine intake among young adolescents.
Study Limitations
Despite the study’s significant findings, certain limitations should be considered. The sample primarily consisted of White/non-Hispanic children from West Virginia, potentially limiting its generalizability to other populations. Additionally, the reliance on self-reported data introduces the possibility of reporting bias. Researchers also lacked data on when participants first started consuming caffeine and did not assess sleep quality or duration beyond daytime sleepiness.
Funding and Disclosures
The study was led by Steven M. Kogan, PhD, from the University of Georgia, and was supported by a grant from the National Institutes of Health. The authors reported no relevant conflicts of interest.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on a scientific study and is not intended as medical advice. Parents and guardians should consult healthcare professionals for guidance regarding caffeine consumption in children and adolescents.
