The biological approach relates to sleep as it’s theories involve bodily processes and functions. The biological approach explores events that occur within the body. Sleep is important as our bodies need sleep to function as certain functions are restored within the body. The biological approach states that sleep occurs in a circadian rhythm known as the sleep-wake cycle occurs over a 24-hour period. The hypothalamus is located in the brain and contains the superchiasmatic nucleus (SCN) which controls the circadian rhythm. The SCN controls sleep patterns by receiving visual cues from the visual system and passing signals to the pineal gland. The pineal gland, when signalled to, releases melatonin, a sleep hormone, which causes us to feel sleepy when it begins to get dark. This explains why we feel sleepy at night but feel more awake and alert during the day. Light, therefore, functions as a zeitgeber.
Michael Siffre showed the importance of the sleep wake cycle through his case study whereby he was isolated in a cave for two months. He was not exposed to any light but …show more content…
During REM sleep, rapid eye movement occurs as we dream and the brain becomes more active causing faster brain waves and deeper sleep. Most of our sleep occurs in the NREM sleep stages where brain waves are slower. The restoration theory states that NREM sleep is needed to restore physiological functions. Growth hormones are secreted during NREM sleep which is particularly important for the growth of children along with protein synthesis and cell growth. Cells in the body are constantly renewed which makes sleep vital in allowing cell growth. REM sleep is very important as it allows bodily energy reserves to be restored, muscles to be repaired and cells to grow. During REM sleep, neurons regain sensitivity as there is a break in neurotransmitter activity. This is important as psychological functions recover and mental functions
Michael Siffre showed the importance of the sleep wake cycle through his case study whereby he was isolated in a cave for two months. He was not exposed to any light but …show more content…
During REM sleep, rapid eye movement occurs as we dream and the brain becomes more active causing faster brain waves and deeper sleep. Most of our sleep occurs in the NREM sleep stages where brain waves are slower. The restoration theory states that NREM sleep is needed to restore physiological functions. Growth hormones are secreted during NREM sleep which is particularly important for the growth of children along with protein synthesis and cell growth. Cells in the body are constantly renewed which makes sleep vital in allowing cell growth. REM sleep is very important as it allows bodily energy reserves to be restored, muscles to be repaired and cells to grow. During REM sleep, neurons regain sensitivity as there is a break in neurotransmitter activity. This is important as psychological functions recover and mental functions