PSY357 Sleep and Dreaming 2025 Summary

Set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the PSY357 Sleep and Dreaming course, focusing on neurophysiology, sleep stages, and functions of sleep.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

A test that detects electrical activity in the brain using small electrodes attached to the scalp.

Stages of Sleep

Divided into various phases: Wakefulness (W), NREM stages (N1, N2, N3), and REM sleep.

Alpha Rhythm

Brain activity measured at 8-12 Hz associated with relaxed wakefulness.

Theta Waves

Slow brain waves (4-7 Hz) observed during NREM sleep.

Sleep Spindles

Rapid bursts of brain activity occurring during NREM sleep, typically in the range of 11-16 Hz.

K Complex

A sudden spike in brain activity observed in NREM sleep, associated with sleep stability.

Slow Wave Sleep (SWS)

A deep, restorative phase of sleep characterized by slow (delta) brain waves.

REM Sleep

A sleep stage characterized by rapid eye movements and vivid dreaming, making up about 20-25% of total sleep.

International 10-20 System

A standardized method to describe the locations of electrodes used in EEG.

Atonia

Loss of muscle tone which occurs during REM sleep, preventing voluntary movement.

Default Mode Network (DMN)

A network of brain regions that are active when a person is not focused on the external environment, often related to internal thoughts.

Glymphatic System

A waste clearance system in the brain that is more active during sleep, helping to remove toxins.

Neurotransmitter Regulation

The process by which sleep affects the activity levels of neurotransmitters that regulate mood and cognition.

Homeostatic Sleep Drive

The physiological need for sleep that builds the longer a person is awake.

First Night Effect

A phenomenon where individuals experience disrupted sleep when sleeping in a new or unfamiliar environment.

Sleep Credit

The concept of perceived adequate sleep whereby individuals feel they have had sufficient rest, regardless of objective measures.

Biological Aging and Sleep

Studies suggesting a correlation between insufficient sleep and accelerated aging processes.

Sleep Architecture

The structure and pattern of sleep cycles, including the duration and sequence of different sleep stages.