11. A person who normally sleeps eight hours a night sleeps less than five hours for two consecutive nights. On the next night, the person sleeps about nine hours. What is most likely to occur in that nine-hour night?
Answer: C
An increase in the relative percentage of REM sleep
After experiencing sleep deprivation for two consecutive nights, the individual is likely to experience a rebound effect, leading to an increase in the relative percentage of REM sleep during the subsequent night where they sleep about nine hours.
A) An increase in the relative percentage of NREM sleep
While NREM sleep may increase slightly due to the longer sleep duration, the primary response to sleep deprivation is not an increase in NREM sleep but rather a compensatory increase in REM sleep. Thus, this option does not accurately reflect the physiological response that occurs following sleep loss.
B) An increase in the relative percentage of slow-wave sleep (SWS)
Although SWS may also increase following periods of sleep deprivation, the most significant change is observed in REM sleep. The body prioritizes REM sleep recovery after being deprived, making this option less relevant to the person's situation.
C) An increase in the relative percentage of REM sleep
This option correctly identifies the physiological response to sleep deprivation. Following two nights of inadequate sleep, the body compensates during the next sleep period by increasing the proportion of REM sleep, which is crucial for cognitive restoration and emotional regulation.
D) More frequent awakenings during the night
This option is unlikely as the individual is expected to experience deeper and more restorative sleep after the sleep deprivation. Increased sleep duration typically results in fewer awakenings, contrary to the suggestion of this option.
Conclusion
The increase in the relative percentage of REM sleep is the most accurate prediction following sleep deprivation, as the body seeks to restore balance after two nights of insufficient rest. Other options either misinterpret the body's compensatory mechanisms or do not prioritize REM sleep, which is the primary focus in recovery after sleep loss.