Final answer:
Teenagers aged 12 to 18 should aim for 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night to support their development and day-to-day functioning.
Step-by-step explanation:
People between ages 12 to 18 need between 8 to 10 hours of sleep each day. During adolescence, the body and brain are still developing, which is why teenagers typically require more sleep than adults. A study found that teenagers had a mean of 8.9 hours slept, which aligns with current health recommendations.
Moreover, the National Sleep Foundation suggests that this amount of sleep is essential for teenagers to maintain optimal health and function effectively throughout the day. Insufficient sleep can lead to a sleep debt, which has consequences such as decreased alertness and mental efficiency. Therefore, it's crucial for individuals in this age group to prioritize sleep to support their growth, learning, and overall well-being.