Lecture Notes on Consciousness and Sleep

These flashcards cover key concepts related to consciousness, attention, sleep, and altered states of consciousness, providing a useful study tool for exam preparation.

What does consciousness refer to in psychology?

Consciousness refers to the subjective awareness of mental events, including thoughts, feelings, perceptions, and sense of self.

What are the three levels of awareness according to Freud?

1. Conscious: Current awareness 2. Preconscious: Information not currently conscious but easily accessed 3. Unconscious: Thoughts, memories, desires outside awareness.

What is the difference between top-down and bottom-up processes in attention?

Top-down processes involve intentional control guided by cognitive schemas, while bottom-up processes involve environmental influence on sensation and perception.

Give an example of selective attention.

Listening to one person in a noisy room, also known as the cocktail party effect.

What are the main functions of consciousness?

1. Monitoring function: Observes internal and external experiences. 2. Control function: Regulates behaviour and decision-making.

How is consciousness measured?

1. Self-report measures, 2. Brain imaging techniques (like EEG, fMRI), 3. Behavioural observation, 4. Experience-sampling techniques.

What is a flow state?

A state of complete absorption in an activity characterized by intense focus, loss of awareness of surroundings, and intrinsic enjoyment.

What are the functions of sleep?

1. Energy conservation, 2. Restoration, 3. Memory consolidation.

What are the characteristics of REM sleep?

Rapid eye movements, brain activity similar to waking, increased heart rate and breathing, and paralysis of muscles.

What is insomnia?

The inability to fall asleep or stay asleep, which can lead to fatigue and emotional problems.

What are some psychological views of dreaming?

1. Psychodynamic theory: Dreams reflect unconscious desires. 2. Cognitive theory: Dreams reflect waking thoughts and concerns. 3. Biological theory: Dreams are random brain activity.

What types of psychoactive drugs affect consciousness?

1. Depressants (e.g., alcohol), 2. Stimulants (e.g., caffeine), 3. Hallucinogens (e.g., LSD), 4. Cannabis.

What is the hidden observer phenomenon in hypnosis?

A dissociated part of consciousness that remains aware of events outside of conscious awareness.

What is meditation?

A practice that produces deep tranquility by altering normal conscious thought, focusing attention on a simple stimulus.