Question 16

Some sleep difficulties today may stem from unrealistic expectations about sleep.

The historical evidence on segmented sleep suggests that modern expectations for uninterrupted, consolidated sleep may be misaligned with our natural sleep patterns, leading to challenges such as insomnia.

A) That some sleep difficulties today may stem from unrealistic expectations about sleep

This option is correct as it reflects the study's findings that waking during the night may be natural rather than a sign of sleep dysfunction. The historical context provided indicates that people once accepted segmented sleep, which implies that contemporary norms may create unnecessary pressure, potentially exacerbating sleep-related issues.

B) That humans no longer need to sleep as much as in the past

This option is incorrect because the extract does not suggest that the overall need for sleep has decreased. Instead, it emphasizes how the perception of sleep has changed over time, rather than altering the fundamental requirement for sleep itself.

C) That segmented sleep is inferior to consolidated sleep

This option is incorrect as the extract indicates that segmented sleep might be the natural human condition. It implies that both segmented and consolidated sleep have their merits and that the preference for consolidated sleep may be a more recent societal development rather than a definitive superiority.

D) That medical treatment is necessary to fix natural waking patterns

This option is also incorrect since the extract argues that waking during the night could be a natural behavior rather than a disorder needing treatment. It suggests that interventions may not be necessary if waking is part of a natural sleep cycle.

Conclusion

Overall, the historical evidence implies that our current sleep difficulties may arise from unrealistic expectations imposed by modern society regarding how we should sleep. The data points to the idea that segmented sleep could be a more natural state for humans, challenging the notion that uninterrupted sleep is the only healthy pattern. Thus, the correct answer highlights the need to reconsider how we view and approach sleep in light of historical practices.