AP Psychology REM Sleep Stages

Rapid eye movement sleep (REM)

a sleep phase when a person's eyes move rapidly while closed, and they are likely to dream vividly

Stage 1 (N1) (NREM-1)

the brain produces theta/alpha waves; people experience hypnagogic sensations

 Stage 2 (N2) (NREM-2)

 the brain produces sleep spindles (rapid, rhythmic brain-wave activity) which aid memory processing

 Stage 3 (N3) (NREM-3)

transition stage; the brain begins producing delta waves (the large, slow brain waves associated with deep sleep)

Stage 4 (N3) (NREM-3)

deep sleep stage; the brain produces delta waves

Delta sleep is important for replenishing the body’s chemical supplies, releasing growth hormones (children), and fortifying our immune system

Sleepwalking (somnambulism), sleep-talking, bedwetting, & night terrors may occur

Awake

the brain produces beta waves (awake & alert) & alpha waves (the relatively slow brain waves of a relaxed, awake state)