Caffeine's Impact on Teen Behavior

MDedge – Family Medicine

A study of 2633 middle school students in West Virginia found that daily caffeine consumption exceeding 100 mg is linked to increased conduct problems and daytime sleepiness. The research, conducted over four waves at 6-month intervals, involved self-reported data on caffeine intake, sleepiness, and conduct issues. Findings indicate that caffeine consumption of 100 mg or more is associated with a significant rise in conduct problems (estimate [Est.], 0.22) and sleepiness (Est., 0.38), with the latter partially mediating the behavioral effects. Consumption below 100 mg showed no such associations. The study supports recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry that children under 12 should avoid caffeine. The research was funded by the National Institutes of Health.