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New and Updated Course Descriptions

PSY 230 - Mysteries of Sleep and Dreaming

3 Credits

This course explores various questions about sleep and dreaming, including why we sleep and why we dream. Topics include how sleep and dreaming are scientifically studied, current theories and research on sleep and dreaming, sleep stages, and the neurological and psychological bases of sleep and dreaming. The course also examines the functions of sleep and dreaming, changes in sleep-wake cycles through the lifespan, various sleep-wake disorders, physical and psychological consequences of sleep deprivation, and healthy sleep practices. The course emphasizes sleep as an active process, vital to optimal physical and psychological health and functioning.

Prerequisite: PSY 101

MCC General Education: MCC-SSD - Social Science and Diversity (MSSD)

Course Learning Outcomes
1. Describe how sleep and dreaming are scientifically studied, including how REM and NREM sleep stages are differentiated.
2. Identify the neurological bases of sleep, including brain structures, neurotransmitters and hormones that regulate sleep.
3. Recognize how daily sleep/wake cycles change throughout the lifespan.
4. Evaluate theoretical explanations as to why we sleep and dream.
5. Differentiate the neurological, physiological and psychological functions of sleep and dreaming.
6. Compare and contrast various sleep-wake disorders, including parasomnias, insomnia, and narcolepsy, and other sleep disruptions.
7. Explain the effects of sleep deprivation on physical and psychological health and functioning.
8. Apply healthy sleep practices to personal sleep patterns and habits.

Course Offered Fall

Use links below to see if this course is offered:
Fall Semester 2024
Spring Semester 2024
Summer Session 2024