CIRDIAN RHYTMS

Question 1

Circadian rhythms (CR)

Answer 1

• any physical, mental and behavioural changes that follow a 24-hour cycle.
• These changes occur once every 24 hours.
• The circadian cycle of sleep and wakeful states is governed by-the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN)
• which controls the sleep-wake cycle by regulating the secretion of the hormone melatonin by the pineal gland.

Question 2

Siffre’s Cave Study 1962

Answer 2

• Food and drink access, no light for 7 months, taking self-measurements such as cognitive tests
  and blood pressure daily.
• Emerged in September. S/W cycle free ran to 25h.

Question 3

One limitation of research into CR is that it was a case study.

Answer 3

• For example, it was of 1 individual who was aspeleologist who was used to spending a lot of time in the dark. Therefore, the findings are unique
  to him as his body’s behaviour may not be typical of all people.
• This means it cannot be generalised to the wider population as the rest of us may not adjust to a 24/25 hour clock as easily.
• Furthermore, there is a lack of control because they only monitored him through cameras, and so he could’ve pretended to sleep.

Question 4

Another limitation of research into CR is that he wasn’t in complete isolation.

Answer 4

• For example, Siffre still had access to artificial light. Artificial light helps to reset your biological clocks, which could be a confounding variable.
• This means we’re unaware if he had a 24 hour clock as he could have possibly been able to reset his sleep/wake cycle through the use of artificial light.
• This is a disadvantage as the findings may be confounded, and so would not be valid.

Question 5

One strength is that research has useful practical applications to shift work.

Answer 5

• For example, in understanding our daily cycle, research has found that we experience a period of reduced concentration around 6 in the morning which increases chances of mistakes/accidents.
• This allows us to put appropriate measures in place that support the wellbeing of staff ensuring they are healthy which increases productivity.
• This is an advantage because it means workers spend less time off work and more time contributing to the economy- useful economic implications

Question 6

One strength of research into circadian rhythms is that it has practical application to drug treatment.

Answer 6

• For example, in understanding pharmacokinetics we are able to identify the most suitable time to have certain medication, and how well medicine is absorbed at different times in the day.
• This means we are able to obtain optimal effectiveness when taking medication and so can help speed up the rate of recovery.
• This is an advantage as it helps increase the quality of life