Final answer:
Mental states that reveal a great deal about individuals encompass both conscious and unconscious processes, including our beliefs about control over outcomes. These states are a complex integration of biological rhythms and psychological factors that together shape our identities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mental States and Consciousness
Our mental states are complex and reveal a great deal about us. They include various levels of consciousness and unconsciousness, such as the thoughts and feelings about ourselves, the belief that we control our own outcomes (internal locus of control), and the belief that outcomes are outside of our control (external locus of control). These states can also be altered through processes like sleep and the use of psychoactive drugs, and extend to hypnotic and meditative states.
When considering the mental states that reveal a great deal about us, options relating to one's beliefs about control over outcomes are reflective of distinct mental states - whether those beliefs are that we control our own outcomes or that they are outside of our control. Both are indicative of our mindset and approach to life. Sigmund Freud emphasized that much of our mind's activities are unconscious, including our defense mechanisms and unacknowledged desires.