MCAT Psychology – Sleep Disorder
- by
- Feb 23, 2015
- MCAT Blog, MCAT Psychology, MCAT Question of the Day
All of the following are characteristic of the condition narcolepsy, EXCEPT:
A) Sudden muscular paralysis
B) Sleep paralysis
C) Significantly greater portion of the day spent asleep
D) Excessive daytime sleepiness
Explanation
A) Sudden muscular paralysis
B) Sleep paralysis
C) Significantly greater portion of the day spent asleep
D) Excessive daytime sleepiness
Although people suffering from narcolepsy are prone to excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep attacks, they do not usually spend a greater portion of the day asleep due to poor sleep quality and frequent interruption of nighttime sleep. Answer choice C is therefore the correct answer.
A, B: Sudden muscle paralysis, or cataplexy, occurs when sudden muscle paralysis occurs in a conscious individual. Cataplexy is subtly different from sleep paralysis, which occurs during the transition between sleeping and waking and is characterized by the inability to move or speak for several minutes after waking up. Both are symptoms of narcolepsy.
Want more MCAT practice?
We’ve got options for every schedule and learning style!
From the best online MCAT course created by top instructors with 524+ MCAT scores to the most representative full-length practice exams and private tutoring, we can custom tailor your MCAT prep to your goals!
Not sure which option is right for you? Schedule a free MCAT consultation with an MCAT Advisor using the form below. No obligation, just expert advice.
Search the Blog
Free Consultation
Interested in our Online MCAT Course, One-on-One MCAT Tutoring or Med admissions packages? Set up a free consultation with one of our experienced Senior Student Advisors.
Schedule NowPopular Posts
-
MCAT Blog What's on the MCAT?
-
MCAT Blog How to Review MCAT Full Lengths

Free MCAT Practice Account
Need great MCAT practice?Get the most representative MCAT practice possible when you sign up for our free MCAT Account, which includes a half-length diagnostic exam and one of our full-length MCAT practice exams.
Learn More