Antwon cannot seem to focus in class today. Though he is not asleep, his mind appears to be drifting off, leading to thoughts of his girlfriend, his job, and upcoming events of the day. Antwon appears to be in which of the following states of consciousness?

• A. Waking
• B. Unconscious
• C. Altered
• D. Unfocused

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of 'states of consciousness' in psychology, which refers to the different levels of awareness of one's thoughts and feelings.
2. Step 2: Recognize that 'waking consciousness' is a state where an individual is fully alert and aware of their surroundings and thoughts.
3. Step 3: Consider the characteristics of an 'altered state of consciousness,' which can include daydreaming, meditation, or being under the influence of substances, where the mind is not fully focused on the immediate environment.
4. Step 4: Analyze Antwon's situation: although he is not asleep, his mind is drifting to various thoughts unrelated to the class, indicating a lack of focus on the present task.
5. Step 5: Conclude that Antwon is likely in an 'altered state of consciousness' because his attention is not on the immediate environment, but rather on internal thoughts and distractions.