Altered States of Consciousness

Flashcards about Altered States of Consciousness.

Altered State of Consciousness

A state of consciousness where the normal processes of consciousness are disrupted or suspended.

Meditation

A relaxation practice often associated with religion and characterized by achieving a state of tranquility.

Mindfulness

A practice and state of focused awareness of all senses without judgement or reaction.

EEG and Brain Changes with Meditation

Increased alpha activity associated with a relaxed, receptive, and attentive state.

Hypnosis

A procedure in which one person guides another to respond to suggestions for changes in subjective experience.

Characteristics of Hypnosis

Deep relaxation and suggestibility, focused awareness on vivid, imagined experience, and decreased awareness of the external environment.

Hypnotic Induction

The process of getting someone hypnotized, involving guiding suggestions.

Divided-Consciousness Theory

Hypnosis can cause a split in awareness.

Social Influence Theory

The subject is so caught up in the hypnotized role that they ignore the cold.

Psychoactive Substance

Any drug that operates on the nervous system to alter the patterns of mental activity.

Typical Effects of Alcohol

Relaxation, lowering inhibition, impaired physical and psychological functioning.

Typical Effects of Stimulants

Increased alertness, pulse, and blood pressure, elevated mood, suppressed appetite.

Typical Effects of Opiates

Euphoria, pain relief, drowsiness, and impaired motor and psychological functioning.

Typical Effects of Hallucinogens

Hallucinations and visions, distorted time perception, loss of contact with reality.

Typical Effects of Marijuana

Mild euphoria and relaxation, enhanced sensory experiences, increased appetite, impaired memory and reaction time.