Background of the Study
Sleep is crucial for an infant’s growth, cognitive development, and overall well-being. However, maternal work schedules, particularly night-shift jobs, can disrupt an infant’s sleep patterns due to changes in feeding schedules, maternal availability, and household routines. Night-shift employment among mothers has been linked to irregular infant sleep cycles, increased night-time awakenings, and reduced overall sleep duration (American Academy of Pediatrics [AAP], 2024).
In Plateau State, a growing number of mothers work night shifts in various sectors, including healthcare, security, hospitality, and factory jobs. These nontraditional work schedules may interfere with consistent infant caregiving routines, affecting sleep quality and, potentially, long-term child health. Infants with disrupted sleep patterns may experience developmental delays, weakened immunity, and behavioral challenges (WHO, 2024).
Despite the increasing number of night-shift working mothers, little research has been conducted on the impact of these work schedules on infant sleep patterns in Plateau State. This study aims to examine the relationship between maternal night-shift jobs and infant sleep health, providing insights for working mothers and healthcare providers.
Statement of the Problem
Maternal employment in night-shift jobs is becoming increasingly common in Plateau State due to economic demands. However, the consequences of these work schedules on infant sleep patterns remain understudied. Many working mothers struggle to balance their professional obligations with their infant’s sleep needs, leading to irregular sleep patterns and potential health consequences.
There is a need to understand how maternal night-shift work affects infants’ sleep duration, night awakenings, and sleep quality. This research seeks to provide data-driven recommendations for mothers and employers to create supportive work environments that promote maternal and infant well-being.
Objectives of the Study
To examine the impact of maternal night-shift jobs on infant sleep patterns in Plateau State.
To assess the common sleep disturbances experienced by infants of night-shift working mothers.
To explore potential interventions to mitigate the negative effects of maternal night-shift jobs on infant sleep health.
Research Questions
How do maternal night-shift jobs affect infant sleep duration and quality?
What are the common sleep disturbances among infants of night-shift working mothers?
What strategies can be employed to improve infant sleep health despite maternal night-shift work?
Research Hypotheses
Maternal night-shift jobs negatively affect infant sleep patterns.
Infants of night-shift working mothers experience more sleep disturbances than those of daytime-working mothers.
Structured caregiving routines can help mitigate the negative impact of maternal night shifts on infant sleep.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on night-shift working mothers in Plateau State and their infants. Limitations may include variations in maternal work schedules and infant sleep patterns due to individual differences.
Definitions of Terms
Night-shift jobs: Employment that requires working overnight hours, typically between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Infant sleep patterns: The regularity, duration, and quality of sleep in babies under 12 months.
Sleep disturbances: Disruptions in sleep cycles, such as frequent awakenings, difficulty falling asleep, or inconsistent sleep durations.
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