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Differences in neuropsychological correlates between normals and those experiencing "Old Hag Attacks"
N Kettlewell1, S Lipscomb, E Evans
1University of Montana, Missoula.
Perceptual and Motor Skills
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Individuals experiencing "Old Hag Attacks," a sleep disorder with paralysis and hallucinations, displayed distinct cognitive profiles. This study analyzed differences in cognitive laterality among these individuals compared to a control group.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- The "Old Hag Attack" is a phenomenon involving sleep paralysis and hypnagogic hallucinations.
- Understanding the cognitive underpinnings of this sleep disorder is crucial for developing targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cognitive laterality profiles of individuals who have experienced "Old Hag Attacks."
- To compare the cognitive performance of affected individuals with that of a control group.
Main Methods:
- Administered The Cognitive Laterality Battery to 240 university students.
- Utilized a questionnaire to identify participants who had experienced "Old Hag Attacks."
- Statistically analyzed score differences between the affected group and normal subjects.
Main Results:
- Individuals reporting "Old Hag Attacks" demonstrated a statistically significant difference in their Cognitive Laterality Battery scores.
- A distinct cognitive profile was identified in subjects experiencing this hypnagogic sleep disorder.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest a link between specific cognitive laterality patterns and the occurrence of "Old Hag Attacks."
- This research provides empirical data that may refine existing theories on the etiology of hypnagogic sleep disorders.