Define ‘normal waking consciousness’.
The state of consciousness we experience when we are awake and are aware of our thoughts, feelings and perceptions from internal events and the surrounding environment.
What does it mean when consciousness is described as a hypothetical construct?
It is believed to exist but cannot be directly observed.
Consciousness is said to operate on a………? (Explain).
Continuum.
Ranging from a high level of awareness/consciousness to a low level of consciousness/awareness (eg.unconscious).
Define ‘altered state of consciousness’.
This is when we deviate from this normal baseline of consciousness.
What are the seven characteristics that explain how an ASC differs from NWC?
- Level of awareness
- Content limitations
- Controlled and automatic processes
- Perceptual and cognitive distortions
- Emotional awareness
- Self-control
- Time orientation
What does perceptual and cognitive distortions refer to?
The degree of awareness and efficiency of your perceptions and cognition (thoughts and memories) is often more distorted.
What do content limitations refer to?
Usually less (sometimes more) control to limit what you want to attend to.
What is daydreaming?
When we shift our attention to our private thoughts, feelings and imagined scenarios and ignore the external world.
Why is daydreaming considered an ASC?
Because the level of awareness of external stimuli is reduced.
How does alcohol force an ASC?
Because it is a depressant, it slows or depresses the nervous system and, as a result, alters our state of consciousness.
What is another example of an ASC?
Meditation.
Define meditation.
A deliberately induced altered state of consciousness in which a person uses mental exercises to become highly focused on a single thought, to the exclusion of others.