The hypnagogic state: A brief update

The hypnagogic state is the transitional period between wakefulness and sleep during which sensory perceptions can occur. This review compiles recent scientific literature on hypnagogia, discussing terminology and distinguishing it from related phenomena, and reports its prevalence. It evaluates six future directions proposed by Schacter (1976) and adds three new ones: understanding the emotional quality of hypnagogic states, why they occur so often in visual and kinaesthetic modalities, and their purpose. Research has advanced greatly, bringing us closer to demystifying this state.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The hypnagogic state refers to a transitional stage between wakefulness and sleep, in which sensory perceptions can be experienced. In this review, we compile and discuss the recent scientific literature on hypnagogia research regarding the future directions proposed by Schacter (1976; Psychological Bulletin, 83, 452). After a short introduction discussing the terminology used in hypnagogia research and the differentiation of hypnagogic states with other related phenomena, we review the reported prevalence of hypnagogic states. Then, we evaluate the six future directions suggested by Schacter and we propose three further future directions. First, a better understanding of the emotional quality of hypnagogic states is needed. Second, a better understanding of why hypnagogic states occur so frequently in the visual and kinaesthetic modalities is needed. Lastly, a better understanding of the purpose of hypnagogic states is needed. In conclusion, research has made great progress in recent years, and we are one step closer to demystifying the hypnagogic state.