MCAT Behavioral Sciences Question 53: Answer and Explanation
Home > MCAT Test > MCAT behavioral sciences practice tests
Test Information
- Use your browser's back button to return to your test results.
- Do more MCAT behavioral sciences practice tests.
Question: 53
8. Which theory of dreaming states that dreams and thoughts during wakeful periods use the same stream-of-consciousness system?
- A. Activation–synthesis theory
- B. Problem-solving theory
- C. Cognitive process theory
- D. Neurocognitive theory
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Cognitive theorists proposed in the cognitive process dream theory that wakeful and dreaming states use the same mental systems within the brain, particularly stream-of-consciousness. The activation–synthesis theory, choice (A), states that dreams are caused by widespread, random activation of neural circuitry. The problem-solving dream model, choice (B), indicates that dreams are used to solve problems while sleeping due to untethering of dreams from obstacles perceived while awake. The neurocognitive theorists, choice (D), seek to unify cognitive and biological perspectives by correlating the subjective dream experience with the physiological experience of dreaming.