Dot Point 1 - States Of consciousness Flashcards

You may prefer our related Brainscape-certified flashcards:
0
Q

What is the consciousness continuum?

A

The consciousness continuum refers to our level of awareness of both internal and external stimuli. It determines how much information we take in and respond to.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
1
Q

What is consciousness?

A

It is the awareness of objects and events in the external world and mental processes at any given moment.

  • it consists of all the thoughts, feelings, sensations, perceptions and memories you are aware of
  • consciousness is referred to as a hypothetical construct, This means it is thought to exist but can not be directly observed.
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

Does the concours ness continuum vary through out the day?

A

Yes. It varies throughout the day.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

Draw the consciousness continuum

A

Total awareness
NWC. Focused attention / controlled process
Divided attention / automatic processes

ASC.        Day dreaming 
                 Meditation 
                 Hypnosis
                 Sleeping
                 Anaesthesia
                 Coma (unconsciousness) 

Unaware of thoughts, feelings and sensations

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

Why is consciousness represented on a continuum?

A

Because there is no distinct boundary where one state of consciousness begins and another ends.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

Define Normal Waking Consciousness

A

Normal waking consciousness (NWC) : A state of clear, organised alertness to internal and external stimuli

We spend 2/3 of our day in NWC

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

Define Altered States of Consciousness

A

Altered state of consciousness (ASC) refers to any state that is distinctly different from NWC.

They can occur naturally of be induced.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What is an example of an ASC

A

Meditation, sleep, coma

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly