NWC and ASC - Chapter 2 Psych Revision Flashcards Preview

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0
Q

Define ‘normal waking consciousness’.

A

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.

1
Q

What does it mean when consciousness is described as a hypothetical construct?

A

It is believed to exist but cannot be directly observed.

2
Q

Consciousness is said to operate on a………? (Explain).

A

Continuum.

Ranging from a high level of awareness/consciousness to a low level of consciousness/awareness (eg.unconscious).

3
Q

Define ‘altered state of consciousness’.

A

This is when we deviate from this normal baseline of consciousness.

4
Q

What are the seven characteristics that explain how an ASC differs from NWC?

A
  1. Level of awareness
  2. Content limitations
  3. Controlled and automatic processes
  4. Perceptual and cognitive distortions
  5. Emotional awareness
  6. Self-control
  7. Time orientation
5
Q

What does perceptual and cognitive distortions refer to?

A

The degree of awareness and efficiency of your perceptions and cognition (thoughts and memories) is often more distorted.

6
Q

What do content limitations refer to?

A

Usually less (sometimes more) control to limit what you want to attend to.

7
Q

What is daydreaming?

A

When we shift our attention to our private thoughts, feelings and imagined scenarios and ignore the external world.

8
Q

Why is daydreaming considered an ASC?

A

Because the level of awareness of external stimuli is reduced.

9
Q

How does alcohol force an ASC?

A

Because it is a depressant, it slows or depresses the nervous system and, as a result, alters our state of consciousness.

10
Q

What is another example of an ASC?

A

Meditation.

11
Q

Define meditation.

A

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.