Oswald (1966)

Question 1

What was Oswald’s theory called?

Answer 1

Repair and Restoration Theory of Sleep

Question 2

According to Oswald what is the function of sleep?

Answer 2

Oswald’s theory suggested the function of nREM sleep is to restore and repair the body. Function of REM sleep is to restore and repair the brain.

Question 3

What does Oswald’s theory imply?

Answer 3

If we do not sleep enough our bodies will not heal from injuries and our brains will experience cognitive decline.

Question 4

What research links to Oswald’s theory?

Answer 4

• Peter Tripp
• Rechtschaffen (1983)
• Horne
• Watson
• Shapiro

Question 5

What are analysis points about Oswald’s theory?

Answer 5

• Patients with drug overdoses and spinal injuries spent longer in REM sleep.
• Patients with brain injuries can be put into an induced coma to aid brain recovery.
• Dolphins don’t experience REM sleep and have no negative effects.
• REM sleep is an active brain state and burns energy.
• Supports the cognitive theory of sleep as enhancing information processing.
• More reliable than psychodynamic as EEG was used, greater validity.