Psychology Module 9

Sleep disorders

Changes in sleep-wake cycles that typically have negative effects.

Circadian phase disorder

A sleep disorder that affects a person's internal sleep-wake clock, resulting in disturbed sleep.

Jet lag

The disruption of the sleep-wake cycle when travelling across time zones.

Insomnia

A sleep disorder characterised by difficulties falling asleep, staying asleep and waking up at the right time.

Sleep-onset insomnia

A form of insomnia characterised by difficulty falling asleep at the beginning of the night.

Sleep-maintaining insomnia

A form of insomnia characterised by difficulty staying asleep throughout the night.

Early-morning awakening insomnia

A form of insomnia characterised by problems with waking up too early and not being able to go back to sleep.

Narcolepsy

A sleep disorder that causes sudden and unexpected sleeping.

Sleep apnoea

A type of sleep disorder characterised by the interruption of breathing during sleep.

Sleepwalking

A type of sleep disorder characterised by walking or completing routine activities during the night.

Sleep hygiene

Habits and strategies that can improve the quality and quantity of sleep.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

A form of psychotherapy that focuses on breaking unhealthy patterns of thinking or behaving and replacing them with positive habits and coping skills.

Bright light therapy

The use of a high-intensity light to advance or delay sleep and therefore treat circadian phase disorders.