AP Psych 1.7 Sleep Wake Cycle & Circadian

Consciousness

the state of being aware of and able to perceive one's thoughts, feelings, sensations, and surroundings

Circadian Rhythm

the body's natural 24-hour cycle

affecting sleep and wakefulness

Jet Lag

fatigue caused by travel across different time zones, disrupting circadian rhythm

Shift Work

employment with work hours scheduled at non-standard times

NREM Stage 1

the first stage of non-rapid eye movement sleep drifting in and out of sleep lasting only a few minutes

brain waves slow down, muscles relax, sudden muscle contractions (hypnic jerks)

Hypnagogic Sensations

feelings of falling or hearing strange noises as one falls asleep during NREM stage 1

NREM Stage 2

the second stage of non-rapid eye movement

body temp drops and heart rate slows

NREM Stage 3

the deepest and most restorative sleep stage

includes slow-wave sleep

REM Sleep

a sleep stage marked by rapid eye movement and dreaming; brain waves are similar to wakefulness

REM Rebound

the tendency for REM sleep to increase following REM sleep deprivation

Activation-Synthesis (Dreams)

theory suggesting dreams are caused by the brain's attempt to make sense of neural activity during sleep

Consolidation Theory (Dreams)

theory that dreams help to cement memories and learning

Memory Consolidation

the process by which temporary memories are converted into a stable form

Restoration of Resources

the theory that sleep helps restore physical and mental resources depleted during wakefulness

Insomnia

difficulty falling or staying asleep

Narcolepsy

a sleep disorder

characterized by sudden and uncontrollable episodes of deep sleep

Sleep Apnea

a sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

a sleep disorder where individuals physically act out their dreams

Somnabulism

sleepwalking