Question 1

Which brain structure is primarily responsible for regulating circadian rhythms by synchronizing with light information from the retina?

Accepted Answer

Suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN)

Question 2

A person wakes up feeling conscious but unable to move, experiencing chest pressure and a sense of a menacing presence. What sleep phenomenon are they most likely experiencing?

Accepted Answer

Sleep paralysis

Question 3

Which stage of sleep is characterized by rapid eye movements, vivid dreams, and brain activity similar to wakefulness?

Accepted Answer

REM sleep (Stage 5)

Question 4

According to Freud, the difference between the latent and manifest content of dreams is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Manifest content is the actual storyline, latent content is the hidden meaning

Question 5

Which sleep disorder involves a rapid and unexpected onset of sleep, often directly into REM, and is associated with a lack of orexin?

Accepted Answer

Narcolepsy

Question 6

What is the primary effect of stimulants such as caffeine on the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

They speed up activities of the nervous system, enhancing wakefulness and alertness

Question 7

Which of the following is a plausible consequence of chronic shift work according to research?

Accepted Answer

Substantial decline in brain function, including memory and overall brain power

Question 8

Which hormone is most closely associated with the regulation of sleep and is secreted in response to darkness?

Accepted Answer

Melatonin

Question 9

A student regularly consumes caffeine after lunch and struggles to fall asleep at night. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Sleep displacement

Question 10

Which sleep disorder is characterized by walking while fully asleep, vague consciousness of surroundings, and occurs during stage 3 sleep?

Accepted Answer

Somnambulism

Question 11

According to the activation-synthesis theory, dreams are:

Accepted Answer

A method for the brain to make sense of random neural activity during sleep

Question 12

Which of the following is TRUE about the effects of alcohol at low doses?

Accepted Answer

It is stimulating via dopamine, lowering inhibition and acting as a 'social lubricant'

Question 13

What is the main risk associated with benzodiazepines when combined with alcohol?

Accepted Answer

Deadly respiratory depression

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the effect of prolonged cannabis use?

Accepted Answer

Impaired cognitive function that is reversible

Question 15

Which sleep stage is most crucial for feeling rested and is associated with growth hormone production?

Accepted Answer

Stage 3 and 4 (deep sleep)

Question 16

A person experiences distress and anxiety, believing they are sleep deprived despite having a normal sleep cycle. This is most likely:

Accepted Answer

Paradoxical insomnia (sleep-state misperception)

Question 17

Which of the following is a plausible explanation for why sleep is adaptive according to the preserve & protect hypothesis?

Accepted Answer

Sleep helps restore resources and protects from predatory risks

Question 18

Which psychoactive drug is known for blocking dopamine reabsorption, leading to intense feelings of euphoria and increased energy?

Accepted Answer

Cocaine

Question 19

Which of the following is a key feature of REM behaviour disorder?

Accepted Answer

Not being paralyzed during REM sleep, allowing the person to act out dreams

Question 20

Which equation best represents the biological rhythm of circadian cycles over a 24-hour period?

Accepted Answer

$$C(t) = A \cos\left(\frac{2\pi t}{24}\right) + B$$

Consciousness: Sleep, Dreams, and Psychoactive Drugs – Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards