Biological Approach: Restroation Theory (Mandatory)

Question 1

What is restoration theory (Oswald 1966)

Answer 1

The theory that the function of sleep is to repair and restore the brain/ body so that adequate biological functioning is ensured. Stage 3 and 4 of the sleep cycle is deep, slow wave sleep which is to restore the body. REM sleep is to restore the brain.

Question 2

Slow wave sleep (SWS) is for body repair

Answer 2

Oswald suggests that in stage 3&4 there is an increase of growth hormone (GH) production which is used in protein synthesis. The fact that when rats are injured and don’t sleep, they heal slower supports the idea that body repair happens during sleep.

Question 3

Evidence to support SWS in relation to restoration theory

Answer 3

Babies sleep a lot and 50% of it is REM sleep at a time when they are growing rapidly and there Brian is developing.

Question 4

A limitation of restoration theory

Answer 4

Horne (1988) said cell generation can happen at any time of day.