Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 19, 2026

Measuring Neural Mechanisms Underlying Sleep-Dependent Memory Consolidation During Naps in Early Childhood
Published on: October 2, 2019
Features of isolated sleep paralysis among Nigerians
J U Ohaeri1, A Awadalla, V A Makanjuola
1Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
Background:
There is paucity of studies on isolated sleep paralysis (ISP).
Objectives:
To explore the relationship of variables for ISP sufferers, and clarify factors predictive of ISP health behaviour (IHB--doing something to prevent further attacks).
Design:
Cross-sectional study.
Setting:
General population.
Measurement:
24-item ISP questionnaire completed by respondents.
Subjects:
One hundred and ten (38.2%m, aged 30.9 years).
Results:
Mean ISP frequency in the lifetime, past year and past month, were respectively, 6.7, 2.02, and 0.5; average duration of episodes was four minutes, and 63.6% experienced it while awakening from sleep. Using ICSD criteria, 2.7% had severe experience (i.e. at least once per week), 18.2% moderately severe (once per month) and 75.5% mildly severe (less than once per month), with no significant demographic associations. 56.4% were afraid of the experience, 76.4% had little/no worries that something was seriously wrong with their bodies; 39.1% cited supernatural causes, 35.5% cited physiological/psychosocial causes; and 44.5% described a hallucinatory experience. 1.8% took medical measures, and 7.3% consulted a faith healer; 44.5% resorted to prayers and 41.8% did nothing to prevent further attacks. The primary determinant of IHB was being afraid of ISP.
Conclusion:
These findings have public mental health education, treatment and research implications.
Related Concept Videos
REM Sleep Behavior Disorder
RBD is significantly associated with...
Nightmares and Night Terrors
Nightmares often...
Stages of Sleep
Before sleep begins, in wakefulness, the brain exhibits primarily beta waves, which are high in frequency and low in amplitude, indicating alertness...
Sleep-Wake Cycles
NREM Sleep
NREM sleep comprises four progressive stages that seamlessly merge:
Sleepwalking and Sleep Talking
Factors that increase the likelihood of sleepwalking include sleep deprivation and alcohol consumption. Contrary to common beliefs, it is safe...
Understanding Sleep
The circadian rhythm, a nearly 24-hour cycle, is deeply influenced by environmental light cues. Light exposure directly affects the hypothalamus, which in turn regulates...