1. Consciousness Are you as aware as you think?

2. Objectives F Analyze the nature of consciousness F Describe the stages of sleep and list possible sleep problems. F Explain how meditation, biofeedback, and hypnosis relate to consciousness. F Describe the various kinds of drugs and their effects on consciousness.

3. The Study of Consciousness F In 1904, William James asked the question; Does Consciousness exist? F He was concerned that there was no scientific way to study consciousness.

4. Behavioral view of Consciousness. F John Watson the founder of American Behaviorism. F 1913 He wrote Psychology as a Behaviorist Views It” F “The time seems to have come when psychology must discard all references to consciousness”

5. Consciousness as a Construct F Many psychologists believe consciousness can be studied by observing behavior. (I.e. talking with brain waves)

6. Consciousness as a Construct F What is a construct? F Consciousness as a psychological construct is a concept used to talk about something we cannot see. F Intelligence, emotion and consciousness are all constructs.

7. Meanings of Consciousness F Consciousness as Sensory Awareness –The sights, sounds, smells and feelings you are aware of. –Attention allows us to select what we are aware of. –We are more aware of unusual stimuli.

8. Meanings of Consciousness F Consciousness as Direct Inner Awareness. –You jump into a cool pool on a hot day. –Your feelings of hurt, fear, anger, love, lust or attraction. F Awareness of how you feel.

9. Meanings of Consciousness F Consciousness as Awareness of Self –Young children will sometimes refer to themselves by name. –It is not until later that we begin to recognized ourselves as unique individuals.

11. The Preconscious Level F If we could put it in a hierarchy this falls in the middle. F It contains stored knowledge and memories. F This is constantly in flux.

12. Unconscious Level F This was first identified by Freud. F He believed that all our true desires often the most base are in this region. F Some items move into preconscious to conscious level.

13. Conscious Level F This is what you are currently aware of. F Your current perceptions and thoughts F Usually very short duration but may be extended through concentration.