Psychology of Consciousness

What is the primary distinction between disordered states of consciousness and altered states of consciousness?

What does consciousness consist of?

Hypnosis is one way to achieve altered states of consciousness.

Which of the following can result in altered states of consciousness?

What is a common experience of altered state of consciousness?

What is ayahuasca considered by the members of Uniao do Vegetal?

People can report their experiences during all forms of altered states of consciousness.

Consciousness

Consciousness is awareness of both external events and internal mental processes.
Consciousness is subjective and unique to each person.
Changes in consciousness include shifts in perceptions, emotions, memories, time sense, thoughts, feelings of self-control, and suggestibility.
Altered states of consciousness (ASCs) are states that differ from normal awareness.
ASCs are characterized by changes in the quality and pattern of mental activity.
Many ASCs can be achieved through hypnosis, meditation, drug use, and sleep.

Disorders of Consciousness

Disorders of consciousness are long-term lacks of consciousness and responsiveness.
Examples of disorders of consciousness include:
- Coma
- Persistent Vegetative State

Altered State of Consciousness

Altered states of consciousness often include heightened self-awareness.
Examples of ASCs include:
- Sleep
- Dreaming
- Daydreaming
- Long-distance running
- Listening to music
- Making love
- Consuming psychedelic substances (e.g., ayahuasca)
- Engaging in meditation practices (e.g., Buddhist meditation)
- Participating in spiritual ceremonies (e.g., Turkish whirling dervishes)

This quiz explores the various aspects of consciousness, including awareness, altered states, and disorders. It provides insights into how consciousness can vary from person to person and the implications of altered states such as sleep or coma. Test your understanding of these concepts and their significance in psychology.