Unit 3 AOS1: Mind, Brain, Body Flashcards
Why is a continuum used to measure states of consciousness?
A continuum is used as there are no distinct boundaries to indicate where one state of consciousness ends and another begins.
Define normal waking consciousness
A state of consciousness experienced when you are awake and aware of your thoughts, feelings and perceptions from internal events and the surrounding environment
Define altered state of consciousness
Is any state of consciousness that is distinctly different from normal waking consciousness.
Can occur naturally (sleep, daydreaming) or can be induced (meditation, hypnosis, drug use)
Define attention
Focusing on one or more stimuli well ignoring others
Define selective attention
When attention is focused on specific of limited range of stimuli what others are ignored (singularly focusing on one thing)
Define divided attention
The ability to distribute your attention and undertake two or more activities simultaneously. Example: multitasking
Define awareness
Refers to perceptions, thoughts and feelings that are in our consciousness at any one time.
Define controlled processes
Actions that require high levels of conscious awareness, attention and mental effort in order to achieve a particular goal. Example: learning to drive a manual car.
What type of attention does a controlled process use?
Selective attention
Define automatic processes
Actions that require little Conchas awareness, attention and mental effort, can be completed by undertaking other activities. The activity is easy or familiar.
What type of attention does an automatic process use?
Divided attention
Define consciousness
The awareness of our own thoughts, feelings, and perceptions (internal events) and our surroundings (external events) at any given moment.
