The Sleep Cycle
What is the brain's internal 24-hour clock called?
Circadian rhythm
What happens to our memory when we get enough sleep?
Memory improves, sleep helps store memories
What is Sleep Paralysis? AND, in what phase of sleep does this typically occur?
Sleep Paralysis is a phenomenon in which the brain "wakes up" while the body is still temporarily paralyzed from REM sleep. Typically, people experience frightening hallucinations.
What is the sleep disorder where someone repeatedly stops breathing during sleep?
Sleep Apnea
What does REM stand for?
Rapid Eye Movement
During which sleep stage do vivid dreams typically occur?
REM sleep
Which hormone is released during deep sleep, promoting growth?
Growth hormone
What is Lucid Dreaming?
Lucid Dreaming is a phenomenon in which an overactive Prefrontal Cortex causes an individual to "wake up" and temporarily control their dream.
What is the sleep disorder involving sudden attacks of REM sleep during the day?
Narcolepsy
Oftentimes, what inspires our dreams each night?
Whatever we experienced or thought about that particular day.
How many minutes does one full sleep cycle typically last?
About 90 minutes
List and describe one way that sleep helps restore and repair the brain.
Sleep restores energy
What causes nightmares?
Stress and anxiety, irregular sleep patterns, and an overactive Amygdala.
What involves walking or talking during sleep, typically in NREM-3?
Sleepwalking or sleeptalking
Dreaming happens in REM, when your body is ___________ and muscles are relaxed
paralyzed
How does sleep deprivation affect the body?
No energy, unhealthy appetite, and increased risk for physical injury
How might frequently pulling "all-nighters" negatively impact memory?
The brain cannot properly consolidate memories without adequate sleep.
What is the difference between nightmares and night terrors?
Nightmares are infrequent and occur in REM sleep. Night terror are frequent and occur during NREM-3.
Which disorder involves waking up terrified, usually without remembering the event?
Night terrors
During which sleep stage do we typically experience feelings of falling?
NREM-1
Why do teenagers need more sleep compared to adults?
Teens experience a Phase Delay in which their Endocrine System releases Melatonin later in the day
Why do we often hear people say "make sure you get enough sleep and have a good breakfast" before midterm/final exams?
Without proper sleep, your brain cannot function at its fullest potential. Memory may be negatively impacted.
Who said dreams are the "royal road to the unconscious"?
Sigmund Freud
What common sleep problem makes it difficult to fall or stay asleep?
Insomnia
Why might studying before bed be helpful?
Sleep strengthens memory traces and forms new neural pathways.