Which of the following is a well-documented effect of sleep deprivation?

• A. Impair cognitive performance and memory
• B. Enhance immune system functioning
• C. Reduce emotional reactivity
• D. Increase long-term energy levels

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of sleep deprivation, which refers to the condition of not having enough sleep, either in quantity or quality, over a period of time.
2. Step 2: Review scientific research findings on the effects of sleep deprivation, focusing on cognitive functions, memory, emotional regulation, immune system, and energy levels.
3. Step 3: Recognize that sleep deprivation is consistently shown to impair cognitive performance, including attention, decision-making, and memory consolidation.
4. Step 4: Note that sleep deprivation generally does not enhance immune system functioning; in fact, it tends to weaken immune responses.
5. Step 5: Understand that sleep deprivation often increases emotional reactivity rather than reducing it, and it typically decreases energy levels rather than increasing them.