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Jul 30, 2025
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PSY 1960 - PSYCHOLOGY OF SLEEP AND DREAMING
credits: 3.0
Will provide an in-depth examination of the processes behind sleep and the experience of dreaming. Will begin with an overview of the physiological mechanisms that regulate different states of consciousness and the stages of sleep. This will be followed by an exploration of different theories explaining why we sleep, when we sleep, and how much we sleep, as well as how sleep changes throughout the lifespan. We will then review both classic and modern theories of dreaming and relate them to current evidence about brain functioning, learning, memory, emotion, and states of consciousness. Current evidence regarding the causes and treatments of various sleep disorders will also be discussed, including an overview of research regarding “sleep hygiene” and Objectives: A) Identify the basic physiological mechanisms that support transitions between sleep and wakefulness, the progression through different stages of sleep, and the maintenance of circadian rhythms; B) Summarize current theories regarding the evolution of sleep and its possible functions; C) Describe several theories of dreaming and compare them with current research evidence; D) Identify risk factors and describe treatments for various sleep disorders; E) Describe important factors related to good sleep hygiene and sleep habits; F) Explain the relationship between sleep and health, including the effects of partial and complete sleep deprivation. Method of Instruction: Class will include lecture and discussion on each major topic. The readings will be supplemented with in-class viewings of relevant film clips and occasional student presentations. The course may also feature guest speakers. Method of Evaluation: The course will incorporate a midterm and a final based on material covered in the course texts and lectures, as well as several short quizzes. Participation will be assessed based on contribution to class discussions. Students will also be required to write several short reflection papers, each analyzing a separate topic discussed in class, appearing in the readings, or related to a film segment shown in class. At the end of the course, students will be required to do an in-class presentation on a selected research topic.
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