Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Publication Date
Fall 11-24-2025
College
College of Sciences & Mathematics
Department
Psychological Science, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Jessica Hocking
Presentation Type
Metadata Only
Abstract
Previous research has suggested mixed findings regarding caffeine’s relationship with anxiety, despite caffeine being the most widely consumed psychoactive substance. This study investigated this relationship further, exploring whether caffeine consumption is associated with perceived anxiety symptoms. Sixty-five participants completed an online survey through Qualtrics that assessed daily caffeine intake and anxiety levels using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) scale. A linear regression tested the relationship between levels of caffeine use and perceived levels of anxiety. An independent samples t-test compared anxiety levels between participants who consume less than 400 mg of caffeine and those who consume 400 mg or more. The linear regression showed no significant relationship between caffeine intake and anxiety levels. The results from the t-test also indicated no significant difference in anxiety scores between the two groups. However, the high-caffeine group only included one participant, which severely limited statistical power. These findings do not support either of the hypotheses posed and suggest that caffeine consumption may not significantly predict anxiety levels. Additionally, there was only one participant who consumed over 400 mg of caffeine, which suggests that a majority of people consume healthy amounts of caffeine. Future research could include a diverse and more compliant group of participants to clarify this relationship.
Recommended Citation
Simmons, William H.; Cannon, Kyra; and Lackey, Harry, "Anxiety’s relationship with caffeine usage and frequency" (2025). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 243.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/243
Comments
SURS Oral Presentation