Reaction Paper Essay Example
Reaction Paper Essay Example

Reaction Paper Essay Example

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  • Pages: 12 (3130 words)
  • Published: April 7, 2019
  • Type: Essay
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The article "Lack of sleep ages body's systems" discusses the negative consequences of sleep deprivation on the body, such as impaired glucose metabolism, increased cortisol levels, and unspecified changes in brain and immune functioning. I personally have experienced physical discomfort and increased susceptibility to illnesses due to lack of sleep. However, I question if these effects are solely caused by sleep deprivation or if psychological stress also plays a role. To determine the specific effects of sleep deprivation, an experiment should isolate it from stress and other factors. Concerns arise regarding the reported effects of sleep deprivation in an experiment where physical functioning was observed in men who had normal sleep for three nights followed by six nights of sleep deprivation and seven nights of recovery sleep. The article only compares the effects during stages of deprivation and recovery without mentioning the ef

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fects of normal sleep. This lack of comparison to normal sleep raises questions about any unusual findings during that condition. Additionally, the sequential nature of different sleep conditions poses a potential problem as all participants underwent normal sleep followed by deprivation and then recovery.sleeping againThe three conditions differed not just in sleep duration but also in familiarity with the experimental procedures. This difference is important to consider when analyzing cortisol, a stress hormone, results. When comparing individuals who experienced sleep deprivation (days 4-9) to those undergoing sleep recovery (days 10-16), we are contrasting individuals at different stages of the experiment. If the experimental procedures induce stress themselves, individuals who have already undergone them multiple times may find them less stressful and therefore respond less strongly. Instead of sleep duration alone, this factor coul

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potentially explain the observed pattern in the physiological data. While it is uncertain if these methodological issues fully account for all aspects of this study's results, future research on sleep deprivation should address them. One possible solution is randomly assigning participants to either normal sleep or sleep deprivation conditions to eliminate differences in familiarity with the experiment that could affect results. If these findings can be confirmed and the physiological effects of sleep deprivation are indeed real, it raises intriguing questions about their relationship with aging. The article suggests that the physiological changes caused by lack of sleep resemble those seen in older individuals, prompting speculation about whether alterations in sleeping patterns contribute to these physiological changesThe article primarily focuses on changes in glucose metabolism related to aging. However, my specific interest lies in the potential impact of increased cortisol levels. It is possible that memory problems in older individuals may be partially caused by changes in their sleeping habits. The elderly tend to have less sleep, and sleep deprivation is known to raise cortisol levels which can impair memory. This concept aligns with the textbook's recommendation that REM sleep assists in consolidating new memories. If this hypothesis proves true, it opens up exciting possibilities for using drugs or other therapies to improve sleep quality in older adults and enhance their memory function. Such application of this research would be both remarkable and unexpected.

In psychological and psychiatric records, there are over two million instances of multiple personality disorder, also referred to as dissociative identity disorder (DID). Many people misunderstand this disorder as a deceptive act performed by attention-seeking individuals. However, it is not a trick

but a genuine condition. DID is characterized by patients being unaware of their own disorder, making it a "disorder of hiding." Individuals with this condition often feel that something is wrong within themselves and may worry about their sanity; however, only a small number actually realize they have the disorder. So what exactly does multiple personality disorder entail?In response to stress, some individuals develop a condition known as dissociative identity disorder, which causes them to have two or more distinct personalities. Each of these personalities has its own unique emotional and cognitive processes, forming separate and relatively stable identities. The transition between these personalities can occur rapidly or take place over several years. These different personalities often exhibit significant differences in attitudes; for instance, one personality may be cheerful while another remains serious and reserved.

Individuals with this disorder can possess over fifty different personalities, each with their own name and role. For example, there may be a personality specifically responsible for experiencing all the pain felt by other personalities, acting as the "keeper of pain". While each personality can have its own appearance internally perceived by the individual, it does not alter their external physical appearance. Additionally, these identities differ in age, talents, likes, dislikes.

An example from the novel "The Minds of Billy Milligan" showcases how the main character displayed twenty-four distinct personalities that varied in age, physical appearance, and even gender. Furthermore, each identity possessed unique skills and roles assigned to them. The text also mentions individuals with differing handednesses (left-handed vs right-handed), smoking habits (smokers vs non-smokers), accents (varying regional accents), and talents such as painting, escapology expertise karate proficiency,and sculpting abilities.

The relationships

among these various personas can vary greatly and transitioning between them often results in a lack of memory regarding previous events.The existence of a co-conscious or subconscious personality accompanies the dominant conscious personality. The relationships become more complex when there are multiple personalities involved. In cases of multiple personalities, a "spotlight" serves as the gateway to consciousness where all personalities reside, but only one is aware at a time while others remain unaware. As a result, subsequent personalities entering consciousness experience amnesia.
Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD) is often associated with factors such as lack of love, friendship, and abuse. Individuals with MPD develop separate personalities that may act as friends or develop fearless and pain-resistant personas in response to abuse. Many individuals with MPD deny their condition and live without it being discovered by others.
The number of developed personalities depends greatly on an individual's vulnerability during childhood; on average, females typically have around 19 personalities while males have fewer than half that number. However, the number of personalities an individual can develop may vary based on the type and severity of abuse they have experienced.
For example, a male who endured multiple instances of sexual abuse between ages 7 and 10 might have fewer personalities compared to a female who suffered severe physical, sexual, and emotional abuse from both parents starting in infancy until age 16.In certain cases, females may develop multiple personalities, ranging from 30 to 50 or even hundreds. It is important to note that every individual is unique, so some people may exhibit numerous personalities despite experiencing minimal abuse, while others may have few personalities despite significant abuse. Signs of multiple personality disorder include

a history of depression or suicidal behavior, childhood abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, psychological), reports of one parent being cold and critical while others see them as "wonderful" parents, abusive adult relationships, intense feelings of shame and self-perception as bad or unworthy, tendencies towards self-sacrifice and reluctance to seek help due to feeling burdensome. Other signs include the ability to mentally block pain, engagement in self-harming actions, hearing auditory hallucinations, experiencing flashbacks of past events (visuals, sounds/voices , physical sensations/emotions/feelings/thoughts/actions), previous unsuccessful attempts at therapy and various prior diagnoses such as major depression/sadness/hopelessness/guilt/regret/remorse/shame/helplessness/powerlessness/emptiness/exhaustion/inability-to-feel-pleasure-or-enjoyment/anxiety/fear/tension/restlessness/agitation/worrying/racing thoughts/difficulty concentrating/disturbed sleep/appetite changes/suicidal thoughts/attempts/mood swings/manic episodes/high energy levels/risk-taking behaviors/poor impulse control/grandiosity/delusions/hallucinations/disorganized speech/borderline personality disorder (BPD)/unstable moods/self-image/relationships/behavior/thought processes/substance abuse issues. Symptoms can vary over time with reports of unusual changes in physical abilities/functions or interests/hobbies/passions. If a partner describes the individual as having two distinct personalities like "Dr."If there is a family history involving dissociation issues or phobias/panic attacks/substance abuse/daytime bedwetting/soiling episodes along with psychophysiological symptoms occurring beforehand, it may indicate potential signs of multiple personality disorder. Additional possible symptoms include seizure-like episodes (20) and a background involving nightmares/sleep disorders(21)/sleepwalking(22)/school problems(23). The patient might also report psychic experiences (24), struggle with anorexia/bulimia (25), and experience sexual difficulties.

While complete cure for multiple personality disorder may not be possible, treatment options are available. The goal of treatment typically aims to merge all the different personalities into one main personality referred to as the "original" person. However, this integration process can be complex and success may not always be achieved. Even though personalities can temporarily merge, they have the ability to separate again in stressful or unsafe situations.

The recovery process for multiple personality disorder and childhood

trauma typically takes a minimum of five years and involves a challenging mourning process. It is important to recognize that achieving recovery is possible. While multiple personality disorder may be intriguing and unusual for observers, it can be confusing, unpleasant, and even terrifying for the patient, often leading to unexpected experiences.The treatment itself is notably uncomfortable as patients must face and integrate their childhood traumas and memories into their self-perception. This process also involves reevaluating one's understanding of parents, life, and the world. As each issue or trauma is addressed, the corresponding alter personality may ultimately disappear. The need for personalities to contain unresolved trauma is no longer necessary since we all have conflicting tendencies and engage in unforeseen behaviors at times. This is reflected in sayings like "I didn't know why I did it" or "I didn't think he had it in him." However, most individuals do not develop distinct separate personalities (Cline, 1997).

Dreams serve as a means of communication between the mind, body, and spirit. They represent an alternate state of consciousness characterized by ongoing brain activity and unique brain waves (West, 2003). According to Martin (1992, pg.1), dreams are enigmatic and captivating adventures for the sleeping brain that review a combination of long- and short-term memory during sleep.

Sleep can be categorized as either paradoxical sleep or orthodox sleep – REM sleep being paradoxical sleep while non-REM sleep is orthodox sleep. Dreams predominantly occur during REM sleep approximately every sixty to ninety minutes (Darby, 1997). Dreams are significant to our sleeping brain and can last from five to thirty minutes (Koch-Sheras 6).During sleep, the body functions at a low level and the brain

emits electric brain waves. In non-REM sleep, these waves are slow and large while the body remains calm. However, in REM sleep or Rapid Eye Movement sleep, the brain waves become faster and smaller while the heart rate increases. This stage constitutes about 20% of the night's duration and is when vivid dreams occur where individuals can actively participate or observe events unfolding.

There are different types of dreams including lucid dreaming, nightmares, and fantasies. Lucid dreaming occurs when the dreamer is aware that they are dreaming and has consciousness of what happens within their dream. In some cases, they may even have control over their dream which creates an exhilarating experience (Loyd 84). The text discusses various types of dreams and their characteristics.

It states that alongside lucid dreams, there are nightmares that can leave sleepers feeling anxious or fearful. Nightmares are more common among children due to their active imaginations, while night terrors - which are even more horrifying than nightmares - occur in children aged three to five years old. These terrors are more prevalent in men and often associated with sleep disorders like sleepwalking and sleep talking.

Daydreams, considered fantasies, occur while individuals are awake and can evoke pleasant or distressing emotions. All daydreams involve some level of emotion and may involve replaying events from the individual's present life.If a daydream turns into a fearful experience, it is referred to as a day mare and this can potentially prevent future nightmares. Dreaming during REM sleep is not affected by age or visual impairment; everyone has the capability to dream. While some people do not remember their dreams, those who dream in color are aware

of the presence of colors in their dreams. Different kinds of dreams can provide signals or messages to the dreamer. Studies have shown differences between men's and women's dreams in the past; however, modern lifestyles have made dreams more similar now. Some individuals passively observe their dreams like watching a movie, while others actively participate in them. The duration of dreams varies from person to person but they can last anywhere from five to thirty minutes and may feel longer than they actually appear visually. According to Gonzalez-Wippler (32), some individuals have different dreams each night whereas others can revisit previous ones or even control their dreaming at will, known as lucid dreaming. Dreams can be interpreted diversely and often involve symbolic representations of various things. Numerous studies suggest that dreams are connected to deep desires, fears, past experiences, and potential future events. There are numerous books available that aim to interpret the meaning behind one's own personal dreams ("Dreams"). In the realm of dreaming, individuals perceive through all their senses - seeing, hearing, smelling, touching, and tasting. Usually lacking control over their dreams; if individuals gain control over them it is termed as lucid dreamingDreams typically have a narrative form where the dreamer actively participates in the story. Studies have shown that movies, literature, and music can influence the content of dreams. Emotions and present-day experiences also impact most people's dream content. Many people believe that all dreams hold significance. Auerbach (15-16) states that signs and symbols guide people's lives. Sleep is essential for a fulfilling life as lack of sleep can lead to paranoia, hallucinations, and irrational behavior. Adequate sleep allows the mind

and brain to rest and helps prevent sleep disorders such as sleepwalking and sleep talking. Sleepwalkers often experience night terrors, leading them to talk while asleep. It's important to note that sleepwalking does not occur during REM sleep; it is just one of many sleep disorders. The brain goes through different stages during sleep known as the Sleep Cycle: Stage one (non-REM) involves muscle relaxation, slowing pulse and breathing, and a slight decrease in temperature; stage two includes random images and continued relaxation; stage three (non-REM) further loosens muscles with a drop in blood pressure (Auerbach 15-16). Stage four is a preparation stage for deep sleep within non-REM. Stage five, also known as REM, marks the beginning of a new cycle where the sleeper's eyes move rapidly and their pulse quickens, allowing them to finally dream.Dreams are still largely mysterious despite numerous studies conducted on them.
Dreams are believed by some to have the ability to predict the future and may contain symbols. They play a significant role in decision-making, keeping the mind conscious while asleep. Not only do dreams benefit us physically, but mentally as well. Lucid dreams are seen as the first virtual reality psychological experience. Throughout history, dreams have been viewed as uncontrollable blessings or curses that perplex us due to their limitless possibilities and occurrences in this "dream world". In our dreams, we achieve extraordinary feats that would be impossible in waking life and find ideal partners based on our preferences. These extraordinary experiences become a temporary reality during dreaming; however, nightmares can also occur and present horrifying scenarios for each individual. In my own terrifying nightmare, malevolent monsters take control of

my loved ones and subject me to endlessly watching old 1970's television shows.The quest to prevent or regulate these nightly episodes has puzzled humanity for years.Sleep is an essential necessity for humans and other animals, although the exact reason behind our need for sleep remains mysterious.What we do understand is that prolonged deprivation of sleep can ultimately lead to fatality.Dreams and the act of dreaming also play a crucial role in our sleep cycle.When we engage in extended periods of slumber, our bodies enter into the rapid eye movement (REM) phase where most dreams occur.Scientists from various disciplines are attempting to understand the purpose of dreams from both biological and psychological perspectives, which poses a challenge for those seeking empirical meaning in their own dreams. Numerous dream interpretation books exist, offering endless interpretations and meanings for specific dream references. Whether they are psychics, astrologists, or psychologists analyzing dreams, they must consider various factors in their interpretations. This exploration has led to different approaches, including Freud's focus on sexual symbolism and current theories emphasizing random recollection (1). However, it is possible to consciously control the subconscious mind while dreaming. During an interview for chiropractic school, I discovered Steven Laberge—a psychologist at Stanford University—who studies dreams and the physiological aspects of dreaming. Laberge teaches individuals how to increase awareness during the dream state in order to gain control over their dreams. When people become aware of their dreams, they can fully manipulate and control what happens within them. This state closely resembles being awake and many individuals will experience these types of dreams at least once in their lifetime. Different stimuli can induce this mental state, such

as playing a recorded message stating "This is a dream" during REM sleep or using conditioned tactile stimuli.However, light is the most effective cue for reminding individuals that they are dreaming because it easily integrates into dreams when properly conditioned. A specialized light device has shown promise in achieving this, with 55% of study participants experiencing lucid dreams out of 44 participants. Dr. Laberge's patients experience a state of mind called "lucid" dreaming, where their dreams are highly detailed and realistic. This phenomenon has the potential to uncover secrets of the human mind. Lucid dreaming can be used for nightmare therapy, boosting self-confidence, improving mental health, and even fulfilling fantasies for physically disabled individuals. For paralytics, lucid dreaming allows them to engage in activities like walking or dancing. This opens up possibilities for problem-solving and sensorimotor practice that could benefit stroke or nerve damage patients. Dr. Laberge's research on hypnosis and lucid dreaming reveals limitless opportunities for human advancement as lucid dreaming acts as a "world simulator," similar to a flight simulator, allowing individuals to safely learn new skills and explore different potential futures within their subconscious mind framework while interacting with an interviewer.According to Laberge, what sets humans apart from other animals is our consciousness and advanced reasoning abilities. He suggests that our uniqueness may go beyond being aware of our thoughts and extend to perceiving our subconscious motivations. When we are asleep, it is possible to gain a profound understanding of our subconscious while simultaneously being conscious of both our dreams and the fact that we are sleeping. This state can now be regularly achieved without relying on hypnotic suggestions, surpassing all forms

of hypnosis, including self-hypnosis. Personally, Laberge believes that within our minds lies a concrete understanding of existence rather than mere awareness.

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