Gender Differences in the Relationship between Sleep, Autonomic Function and Academic Performance: The Role of Sleep and HRV

This study analyzed gender differences in the psychophysiological factors of stress and academic performance among university students. A cross-sectional design was employed with a sample of 601 university students (74.7% women) aged 15 to 47 years. Participants completed assessments on sleep quality, heart rate variability (HRV), personality traits, and psychological indicators such as anxiety, depression, and perceived stress. Results showed that women exhibited higher levels of neuroticism, anxiety, psychological inflexibility, and perceived stress compared to men, yet achieved better academic performance. Regression analysis revealed that sleep quality and HRV parameters, such as heart rate (HR) and the square root of the mean squared differences of successive NN intervals (rMSSD), were positively associated with academic achievement. Despite higher stress levels, female students seemed to employ more effective emotional regulation strategies, contributing to their academic success. These findings highlight the need for gender-sensitive approaches in stress management interventions to improve student well-being and academic outcomes. Future research should consider longitudinal designs to explore the temporal dynamics of stress and academic performance.