Journal article

Publication year: 2005

Pages: 98-127

Journal: Psychological Bulletin

Volume number: 131

Issue number: 1

ISSN: 0033-2909

eISSN: 1939-1455

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.131.1.98

Publisher: American Psychological Association

Abstract: 
The article reviews the current knowledge regarding altered states of consciousness (ASC) (a) occurring spontaneously, (b) evoked by physical and physiological stimulation, (c) induced by psychological means, and (d) caused by diseases. The emphasis is laid on psychological and neurobiological approaches. The phenomenological analysis of the multiple ASC resulted in 4 dimensions by which. they can be characterized: activation, awareness span. self-awareness, and sensory dynamics. The neurophysiological approach revealed that the different states of consciousness are mainly brought about by a compromised brain structure, transient changes in brain dynamics (disconnectivity), and neurochemical and metabolic processes. Besides these severe alterations, environmental stimuli, mental practices. and techniques of self-control can also temporarily alter brain functioning and conscious experience.

Harvard Citation style: Vaitl, D., Birbaumer, N., Gruzelier, J., Jamieson, G., Kotchoubey, B., Kübler, A., et al. (2005) Psychobiology of altered states of consciousness, Psychological Bulletin, 131(1), pp. 98-127. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.131.1.98

APA Citation style: Vaitl, D., Birbaumer, N., Gruzelier, J., Jamieson, G., Kotchoubey, B., Kübler, A., Lehmann, D., Miltner, W., Ott, U., Pütz, P., Sammer, G., Strauch, I., Strehl, U., Wackermann, J., & Weiss, T. (2005). Psychobiology of altered states of consciousness. Psychological Bulletin. 131(1), 98-127. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.131.1.98