Question

One way that we know nightmares and night terrors are different is because nightmares occur during _____ and night terrors occur during _____.

a. stages 3 and 4 sleep; alpha wave sleep
b. REM sleep; slow-wave sleep
c. NREM sleep; REM sleep
d. REM sleep; hypnogogic states

Answer 1

Nightmares occur during REM sleep, known for dreaming and rapid eye movements, while night terrors occur during slow-wave NREM stage 3 sleep, marked by delta waves and deep sleep.

Step-by-step explanation:

One way that we know nightmares and night terrors are different is because nightmares occur during REM sleep, which is characterized by rapid movements of the eyes, and brain wave patterns that closely resemble wakefulness. This is the period of sleep in which dreaming typically occurs. On the other hand, night terrors occur during slow-wave sleep, also known as NREM stage 3 sleep, which is characterized by low frequency and high amplitude delta waves. During stage 3 sleep, the body's heart rate and respiration slow significantly, making it difficult to awaken the sleeper.

Since night terrors occur during the NREM phase of sleep, and generally, the affected individuals do not remember the terrifying episodes, while nightmares, which happen during REM sleep, can often be recalled upon awakening. It's also noteworthy that night terrors are less common than nightmares and often do not require treatment unless they are indicative of an underlying condition.

Answer 2

One way that we know nightmares and night terrors are different is because nightmares occur during REM sleep and night terrors occur during NREM sleep.

Nightmares are vivid, disturbing dreams that occur during REM sleep, which is a stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movements and increased brain activity. REM sleep typically occurs about 90 minutes after falling asleep and is associated with dreaming. Nightmares can be intense and can cause feelings of fear, anxiety, or terror, often resulting in waking up from the dream.

On the other hand, night terrors, also known as sleep terrors, occur during NREM sleep. NREM sleep is a non-rapid eye movement sleep that consists of stages 1, 2, 3, and 4. Night terrors usually occur during the transition from stage 3 to stage 4 sleep, which is the deepest stage of NREM sleep. Unlike nightmares, night terrors are not dreams but rather episodes of extreme fear, agitation, and distress that often result in screaming, thrashing, and a feeling of being intensely frightened. Individuals experiencing night terrors are usually difficult to wake up and may not remember the episode upon waking.

So, in summary, nightmares occur during REM sleep, while night terrors occur during NREM sleep. Understanding these differences helps us classify and identify the specific sleep disturbances and provide appropriate interventions or treatments if necessary.