States of Consciousness

Does consciousness exist? If so, how do we study it? Consciousness looked at as a psychological Construct – a concept used to talk about something we can’t see, touch or measure

2 main meanings 1) Consciousness as sensory awareness. – Awareness of your environment 2) Consciousness as direct inner awareness – Imagination – Awareness of feelings, memories

Levels of Consciousness 1) Consciousness – regular awareness 2) Preconscious – not in your awareness currently, but can recall answers if you need to by diverting inner awareness or attention 3) Unconscious – also known as subconscious – Freud suggested that the subconscious is unavailable to awareness most of the time – Defense Mechanisms 4) Non-conscious – basic biological functions

Defense Mechanisms Painful, problematic memories are hidden in subconscious Some impulses are considered unacceptable We bury these problems so that we are unaware of them at a conscious level

Repression – takes anxiety causing ideas and pushes them into the subconscious, occasionally they burst out in a different form.

Rationalization – uses self-deception to justify unacceptable behavior or ideas – Sour grapes is a type of rationalization

Displacement – transfer of idea or impulse from threatening or unsuitable object to less threatening object – Boss yells at you – you yell at spouse – spouse kicks dog

Regression – return to behavior characteristic of an earlier stage of development

Projection – project impulses or anxieties outward unto others. People see their faults in others.

Reaction formation acting contrary to genuine feelings to keep feelings hidden.

Denial – refuse to accept reality

Sublimation – Channeling aggressive or unacceptable ideas or traits into acceptable behavior

Compensation – a person makes up for felt defect (real or imagined) by striving extra hard in another area

Conversion – expresses emotional conflicts through physical symptoms

Fantasy – daydreaming, flight of fancy

Defense mechanisms are common – abnormal only when it is excessive Are they helpful or harmful?