Sleep Theories and Research

What was not a key finding of the study by Lesku et al?

• Brain mass is positively correlated with amount of REM sleep

• Brain mass is positively correlated with amount of NREM sleep

• The more dangerous the sleep site, the less REM sleep

• Basal metabolic rate is negatively correlated with NREM sleep

Answer explanation

The main aim of the study by Lesku et al. was to investigate the effects of sleep on cognitive performance in animals, highlighting the importance of sleep for optimal functioning.

Which type of sleep (REM or NREM) showed a positive correlation with brain mass?

• REM sleep

• NREM sleep

Answer explanation

Research indicates that REM sleep shows a positive correlation with brain mass, suggesting that this sleep stage is important for brain development and function, unlike NREM sleep.

How does the safety of an animal's sleep site relate to the amount of REM sleep?

• REM sleep is unrelated to the safety of sleep sites.
• Safer sleep sites reduce the total sleep duration.
• More REM sleep occurs in less safe environments.
• Safer sleep sites allow for more REM sleep.

Answer explanation

The safety of an animal's sleep site influences its stress levels. A secure environment allows for deeper relaxation, promoting more REM sleep, which is crucial for memory and learning.

What methodological limitation is inherent in the study's use of correlation data?

• Correlation indicates a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
• Correlation can be used to predict future outcomes accurately.
• Correlation data is always reliable and valid for conclusions.
• Correlation does not imply causation.

Answer explanation

The inherent limitation of correlation data is that it does not imply causation. Therefore, while two variables may be correlated, it does not mean that one causes the other, which can lead to misleading interpretations.

What did Oswald suggest about sleep?

• Sleep should be avoided to increase productivity.
• Sleep is essential for cognitive function and health.
• Sleep has no impact on health.
• Sleep is a waste of time.

Answer explanation

Oswald's findings are supported by evidence that aligns with his conclusions, while opposing studies highlight inconsistencies, suggesting a need for further investigation into his claims.

What methodological issues are present in the study by Horne and Pettitt?

• The study had a large sample size and multiple control groups.
• The study focused solely on qualitative data without any quantitative analysis.
• Methodological issues include small sample size, lack of control groups, and potential biases.
• The researchers used advanced statistical methods to eliminate biases.

Answer explanation

The study by Horne and Pettitt may have issues such as small sample size, lack of control groups, or potential biases in data collection, which can affect the validity and reliability of the findings.

What ethical issues are associated with sleep deprivation studies?

• Ethical issues include potential harm to participants, informed consent, and balancing scientific knowledge with participant welfare.
• Sleep deprivation studies have no impact on public health.
• Participants are paid regardless of study outcomes.
• Sleep deprivation improves cognitive function.

Answer explanation

Sleep deprivation studies raise ethical issues such as informed consent, potential harm to participants, and the necessity of balancing scientific inquiry with the well-being of subjects.

What conclusions can be drawn about sleep deprivation?

• Sleep deprivation is beneficial for mental clarity.
• Sleep deprivation has no effect on physical health.
• Sleep deprivation improves memory and focus.
• Sleep deprivation negatively impacts health and cognitive function.

Answer explanation

Sleep deprivation can lead to various negative effects, including impaired cognitive function, mood disturbances, and decreased physical health. It highlights the importance of adequate sleep for overall well-being.

What were the findings of Karni (1994) regarding memory consolidation?

• Memory consolidation is primarily a visual process.
• Sleep has no effect on memory consolidation.
• Memory consolidation is enhanced during sleep, particularly for motor skills.
• Memory consolidation occurs only during wakefulness.

Answer explanation

Karni (1994) found that memory consolidation is enhanced during sleep, suggesting that sleep plays a crucial role in stabilizing and integrating new memories.

What did Walker et al (2002) find in their study of sleep

• If sleep followed training, memory of finger press sequence improved

• If participants were sleep deprived, they were better at the finger press sequence

• There was a negative correlation between the amount of improvement and stage 2 NREM sleep

• Results from the finger press sequence varied with age

Answer explanation

Walker et al (2002) suggest that memory consolidation is enhanced during sleep, indicating that sleep plays a crucial role in stabilizing and integrating memories after learning.