4: KKDP 7 Theories of Sleep

Question 1

Restorative Theory:

Answer 1

Proposes that sleep provides a ‘time out’ to help us recover from depleting activities during waking time that use the body’s physical and mental resources.

Question 2

In Restorative theory, REM is considered to be important as:

Answer 2

Replenishes the mind by:

• Promoting maintenance of brain circuits
• Replenishes resources

Question 3

In Restorative theory, NREM is considered to be important as:

Answer 3

Replenishes the body by:

• Allowing damaged cells and muscles to be repaired
• Helps us ward off illness

Question 4

E.G of REM sleep (Positive)

Answer 4

Most people feel tired before they fall asleep and feel refreshed when they wake up

Question 5

E.G. of NREM sleep (Positive):

Answer 5

Ultramarathon runners who ran a 92 kilometre race slept significantly deeper and longer over the two nights following the race

Question 6

Negative 1 (Restorative):

Answer 6

Unclear whether restoration is the only function of sleep

Question 7

Negative 2 (Restorative):

Answer 7

More active people do not necessarily sleep longer than people in general

Question 8

Evolutionary Theory:

Answer 8

Emphasises the relationship of sleep to circadian rhythms and how sleep has adaptive value and has evolved to enhance survival.

Question 9

Sleep enhances survival:

Answer 9

Makes us inactive during the day when it is most dangerous to move about

Question 10

For 1:

Answer 10

Large predatory animals who aren’t generally vulnerable to attack sleep alot (lions, gorillas)

Question 11

For 2:

Answer 11

Grazing animals with predators tend not to sleep as much

Question 12

Against 1:

Answer 12

Does not actually explain our need for sleep

Question 13

Against 2:

Answer 13

Theory does not account for the loss of awareness and alertness during sleep