Arousal

Definition

Arousal refers to the physiological and psychological state of being awake and responsive to stimuli. It is linked to the activation level of the central nervous system.

Related terms

Sleep:

The state of reduced consciousness and decreased responsiveness to external stimuli.

Stress:

The body's response to challenges or threats that can lead to increased arousal levels.

Activation-synthesis theory: A theory that suggests dreams are a result of random neural activity during sleep, which the brain then tries to make sense of.