Remember: You may need to scroll down in order to view and complete this assignment. Discussion Prompt: State of Consciousness Do you agree with this person’s determination about responsibility in this case? What conclusions might you draw about states of consciousness in sleeping versus waking? Please use your book and/or other reliable resources to back up your argument. The Curious Case of Kenneth Parks https://youtu.be/AuWAkREjl6U book is psyh 4th please click link to watch YouTube video
The Curious Case of Kenneth Parks highlights a unique and perplexing scenario that raises intriguing questions about responsibility and states of consciousness. In this case, Kenneth Parks, a seemingly regular person, committed a violent crime while sleepwalking. The video provides a glimpse into the legal proceedings surrounding this case, as well as the medical and scientific explanations offered to account for Parks’ actions.
Regarding the determination of responsibility in this case, there can be differing opinions. Some might argue that Parks should not be held fully accountable for his actions due to his sleepwalking state of consciousness. Sleepwalking is considered a parasomnia, a type of sleep disorder characterized by activities performed during sleep that are usually reserved for the waking state, such as walking, talking, or even driving. From a legal perspective, the defense team could argue that Parks was not conscious and lacked the necessary intent or control over his actions to be held fully responsible for the crime.
However, others might contend that even in a sleepwalking state, an individual is still capable of causing harm and should therefore be held accountable to some extent. They might argue that, irrespective of his awareness or intent, Parks still physically carried out the crime and caused harm to others. In this view, accountability would be based on the consequences of his actions rather than his level of consciousness during the act.
To draw conclusions about states of consciousness in sleeping versus waking, it is important to consider scientific research and reliable resources. The field of sleep science has made significant progress in understanding the different states of consciousness that occur during sleep. During the sleep cycle, individuals experience different stages, including non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.
NREM sleep is further divided into three stages, with the deepest stage (N3) being most closely associated with sleepwalking. It is believed that sleepwalking episodes occur during this N3 stage, when a person is in a state of deep sleep but not experiencing REM sleep. This distinction is important because REM sleep is when most dreaming occurs and is associated with more pronounced muscle atonia, a state of limited muscle movement.
Sleepwalking is thought to be related to a disruption in the normal regulation of sleep, specifically in the processes that govern the boundary between sleep and wakefulness. Some factors that can contribute to sleepwalking include sleep deprivation, alcohol consumption, stress, and certain medications. It is essential to note that sleep deprivation and alcohol consumption were relevant factors in Parks’ case.
Research has shown that sleepwalking episodes can range in severity, from simple activities like walking around the room to complex actions like cooking or driving. While sleepwalkers may appear awake and engaged in purposeful actions, they are typically not consciously aware of their behavior and do not have a clear memory of the sleepwalking episode upon waking.
Comparing states of consciousness between sleeping and waking, it is evident that the level of awareness and control varies significantly. In the waking state, individuals have a higher level of consciousness and control over their thoughts, actions, and intentions. They are generally aware of their surroundings, can make decisions, and possess a strong sense of self-awareness.
Conversely, during sleep, particularly NREM stage N3 sleep, individuals experience a reduced level of consciousness. This diminished state of awareness makes them susceptible to engaging in behaviors that are typically reserved for the waking state, such as sleepwalking. It is essential to recognize that while sleepwalkers may exhibit a level of motor activity, this activity is not accompanied by the same level of cognitive awareness and control as in the waking state.
In conclusion, the determination of responsibility in the case of Kenneth Parks is subjective and can be influenced by individual perspectives. The understanding of states of consciousness in sleeping versus waking is based on scientific research and reliable resources. Sleepwalking, as experienced during deep NREM sleep, highlights the significant differences in awareness, control, and cognitive functioning between sleeping and waking states. While sleepwalkers may engage in seemingly purposeful behavior, they lack full consciousness and control over their actions. Ultimately, the evaluation of accountability in cases involving sleepwalking must consider the complex interplay between the sleep state and the individual’s level of awareness and control.
