Question

Newborn infants spend about _________ \(\%\) of their sleep time in \(\mathrm{REM}\) while adults spend about __________ 96 of their sleep time in \(\mathrm{REM}\). A. \(20 ; 50\) B. \(50 ; 20\) C. \(20 ; 20\) D. \(50 ; 50\)

Short answer

Answer: Newborns - 50%, Adults - 20%

Step-by-step solution

We are given 4 options for the percentage of REM sleep for newborns and adults. We need to analyze and determine which option provides the correct percentages for both. Option A: Newborns - 20%, Adults - 50% Option B: Newborns - 50%, Adults - 20% Option C: Newborns - 20%, Adults - 20% Option D: Newborns - 50%, Adults - 50% #Step 2: Compare the options#

Based on general knowledge, we know that newborn infants spend a significant amount of their sleep time in REM sleep. On the other hand, adults spend a smaller percentage of their sleep time in REM sleep. We should therefore look for the option that reflects this relative difference. #Step 3: Eliminate incorrect options#

We can eliminate Option C and Option D since they indicate the same percentage for both newborns and adults, which contradicts our understanding. #Step 4: Choose the correct option#

Comparing Option A and Option B, we can see that Option B is the one that correctly reflects the higher percentage of REM sleep in newborns (50%) and the lower percentage in adults (20%). Thus, the correct answer is: Option B: Newborns - 50%, Adults - 20%

Key concepts

Newborn Sleep Patterns

Understanding the sleep patterns of newborns is essential for parents and caregivers. Newborns experience a different sleep cycle compared to adults. In fact, they spend about 50% of their sleep time in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This is a crucial stage where brain development is actively occurring. During REM sleep, infants may twitch, move, or even have brief waking periods.
Newborns typically sleep about 14-17 hours throughout a 24-hour period. However, their sleep is divided into shorter cycles, leading to frequent awakenings. Their sleep cycles are generally shorter, lasting around 50-60 minutes, unlike adults whose cycles average 90 minutes.

• Newborns sleep in multiple short bursts throughout the day and night.
• Frequent feedings and diaper changes influence their sleep pattern.
• Developmentally, they gradually consolidate sleep into longer stretches as they age.

Sleep Cycles

Sleep is not a straight line from awake to REM and back. It comprises several stages that form a cycle, typically repeated numerous times through the night. Newborns, however, exhibit different components to their sleep cycles compared to adults. Instead of following the classic stages of sleep (NREM-1, NREM-2, NREM-3, and REM), newborns experience much shorter cycles mostly dominated by active sleep (an infant equivalent of REM).
This active sleep phase supports essential neurological growth and cognitive development. Over time, as they grow, infants start to incorporate more non-REM sleep into their cycles, which indicates maturation of their sleep pattern and brain development. Newborns' higher percentage of REM sleep compared to adults signifies the critical role REM sleep plays during early life stages.

• Newborns’ sleep cycles are predominantly active sleep.
• Developing brains require more REM sleep for growth and processing information.
• Adult sleep cycles gradually replace infant patterns as the child develops.

Developmental Psychology

Developmental psychology provides insights into how sleep, specifically REM sleep, impacts early child development. The intense brain activity seen during REM sleep is vital for newborns, aiding in the formation of neural connections and resulting in cognitive advancements.
The significant amount of REM sleep in newborns highlights the connection between sleep and neurological development. This stage propels the growth of sensorimotor skills, learning, and memory consolidation. As children grow, the proportion of REM sleep decreases, and this shift correlates with different stages of cognitive and physical development.
Developmental milestones and sleep patterns are closely linked, with the consolidation of sleep reflecting maturation in brain function.

• REM sleep supports rapid brain development in infants.
• Learning and memory are enhanced during REM stages.
• Changes in sleep patterns signal cognitive and physical growth.