Sleep in AP Psychology

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts regarding sleep, dreaming, and sleep disorders based on the provided lecture notes.

Circadian Rhythm

The natural, internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, roughly aligned with the 24-hour day.

REM Sleep

Rapid Eye Movement sleep, a stage associated with vivid dreaming and increased brain activity.

Non-REM Sleep (NREM)

Stages of sleep that do not involve REM, characterized by slower brain waves and important for physical restoration.

Sleep Cycle

A full sleep progression that typically lasts about 90 minutes, cycling through different stages, including NREM and REM sleep.

Sleep Apnea

A sleep disorder characterized by temporary cessation of breathing during sleep, leading to disrupted sleep patterns.

Narcolepsy

A neurological disorder that causes uncontrollable daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks.

Insomnia

A sleep disorder defined by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early.

Activation-Synthesis Theory

A theory that suggests dreams are the brain's way of making sense of random neural activity during REM sleep.

Consolidation Theory

A theory that states sleep, especially REM sleep, is essential for processing and stabilizing new memories.

Somnambulism (Sleepwalking)

A type of sleep disorder occurring during non-REM sleep, where individuals perform complex behaviors in a state of sleep.