Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Hours of sleep refers to the amount of time an individual spends asleep during a specific period. It is an important factor that can affect various aspects of physical and mental well-being.
Related terms
Sleep Deprivation: This occurs when an individual consistently fails to get enough sleep, leading to various negative effects on cognitive function, mood, and overall health.
Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep is a stage of deep sleep characterized by rapid eye movements. It is associated with dreaming and plays a crucial role in memory consolidation.
The circadian rhythm refers to the biological processes that follow a 24-hour cycle, regulating our sleep-wake patterns. Disruptions in this rhythm can lead to difficulties falling asleep or staying awake at desired times.