Chapter 4: States of Consciousness

What distinguishes narcolepsy from other sleep disorders?

involves sudden sleep attacks and can include cataplexy, leading to temporary paralysis.

consciousness

awareness of internal (pain, hunger) and external stimuli (light, warmth).

Nightmares

occur during REM sleep and are frightening

Night terrors

occur in NREM sleep with intense fear

What is the function of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) in the body’s clock?

responds to light/dark cycles and regulates melatonin secretion

Circadian rhythms

last approximately 24 hours and are sensitive to external cues like clocks

How does sleep contribute to psychological functions such as memory consolidation?

Essential for memory consolidation and can assist in problem solving

Psychoactive drugs

change thoughts, emotions, and behaviors by altering biochemical processes in nervous system

Insomnia

Chronic difficulty falling or staying asleep

How common is insomnia

30-50 million americans

Lucid dream

Dreamer is aware they are dreaming and may even control the dream

In what ways can hypnosis be utilized within psychotherapy?

Pain relief, memory recall, behavioral changes

What constitutes sleep debt?

From insufficient sleep

Sleep debt causes

Decreased alertness and cognitive function

Common misconceptions about hypnosis

Resembles sleep and can force individuals to do things against their will

Biological rhythms

internal rhythms of biological activity that help maintain balance within a biological system

Common causes of circadian rhythm disruptions

jet lag and shift work

Hypothalamus

Center of homeostasis and regulates biological rhythms

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

Critical concern under 12 months; greatest risk during sleep

Sleep walking in relation to sleep stages

Occur during delta wave sleep (stage 4)

REM sleep behavior disorder

occurs when normal muscle paralysis fails; acting out while dreaming

What strategies can be employed to reset the circadian clock?

Melatonin, bright light exposure, time, and certain drugs can help reset

How does Rosalind Cartwright view the relationship between dreams and real-life events?

dreams reflect ongoing life events and offer opportunities to resolve problems.

What is the activation-synthesis hypothesis proposed by Hobson regarding dreams?

Dreams arise from random brain activity that the cortex attempts to synthesize into a narrative.

What are some effective strategies for managing sleep problems?

Consistent bedtime, reducing light exposure, exercising, and using relaxation techniques

How does REM sleep deprivation affect memory recall?

lead to reduced memory recall ability

Dissociation theory

Split in consciousness

sociocognitive approach

role-playing effects

How does light exposure influence the secretion of melatonin?

Light reduces melatonin secretion during the day, while darkness increases it at night.

Freud’s theories regarding wish fulfillment in dreams

dreams have manifest content and latent content

manifest content

obvious

latent content

symbolic meanings

Two general neurological systems that regulate sleep

Nuclei; pons and medulla

NREM dreams

less visual and more thought oriented

REM dreams

vivid and emotionally evocative

Physical functions of sleep and their benefits

Waste removal, body tissue repair, energy conservation, immune strengthening, recovery