Which state of consciousness is characterized by altered perception and increased suggestibility?

The state of consciousness characterized by altered perception and increased suggestibility is indeed hypnosis. During hypnosis, individuals often experience a heightened state of focus and concentration, making them more open to suggestion. This altered state can lead to changes in perception, memory, and even voluntary motor functions, allowing participants to engage in imaginative experiences or recall memories more vividly. The suggestibility aspect of hypnosis means that individuals might be more likely to respond to instructions or suggestions provided by the hypnotist, which can influence their behavior or perception during the session.

In contrast, other states such as daydreaming involve a shift in attention and a more relaxed state of awareness but do not typically involve the same level of suggestibility or altered perception. The sleep state is associated with various stages, including REM and non-REM sleep, where consciousness is significantly reduced, but not in the context of heightened suggestibility. Waking consciousness refers to the normal state of awareness and perception experienced during everyday activities, which does not involve the alterations found in hypnosis.