Which of the following groups of characteristics best describes the REM sleep stage?

• A. Slow brain waves, deep muscle relaxation, and minimal dreaming
• B. Regular breathing, decreased heart rate, and absence of eye movements
• C. Light sleep, frequent body movements, and easy awakening
• D. Rapid eye movements, vivid dreaming, muscle atonia, and increased brain activity

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep is a distinct stage of the sleep cycle characterized by specific physiological and neurological features.
2. Recall that during REM sleep, the brain shows activity patterns similar to wakefulness, which is why it is associated with vivid dreaming.
3. Note that REM sleep involves rapid movements of the eyes, which is a key identifying feature and gives the stage its name.
4. Recognize that muscle atonia (muscle paralysis) occurs during REM sleep to prevent the body from acting out dreams, leading to deep muscle relaxation despite brain activity.
5. Compare the given options to these characteristics: rapid eye movements, vivid dreaming, muscle atonia, and increased brain activity best describe REM sleep.