Introduction to Psychology - Levels of Consciousness

Flashcards covering key concepts in psychology related to levels of consciousness.

Consciousness

An individual’s awareness of external events and internal sensations under a condition of arousal.

Metacognition

Thinking about thinking.

Arousal

The physiological state of being engaged with the environment.

Subconscious

Refers to thoughts and processes in the mind of which a person is not directly aware.

Altered States of Consciousness

Mental states that are noticeably different from normal awareness.

Circadian Rhythms

Daily behavioral or physiological cycles, such as the sleep/wake cycle.

Sleep Apnea

A sleep disorder in which individuals stop breathing during sleep.

Insomnia

The inability to sleep, which can involve trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.

Psychoactive Drugs

Substances that act on the nervous system to alter consciousness and modify perception.

Tolerance

The need to take increasing amounts of a drug to achieve the same effect.

Addiction

A physical or psychological dependence, or both, on a drug.

Stimulants

Drugs that increase the central nervous system's activity.

Hallucinogens

Psychoactive drugs that modify a person’s perceptual experiences.

Depressants

Drugs that slow down mental and physical activity.

Narcolepsy

An uncontrollable urge to sleep, leading to sudden sleep onset.

REM Sleep

Rapid Eye Movement sleep, during which vivid dreaming occurs.

Sleep Deprivation

A condition resulting from insufficient sleep, impacting physical and mental health.

Dreams

Mental experiences that occur during sleep, often reflecting unconscious thoughts.