Anomalies in consistency of consciousness

Inconsistencies include déjà vu and jamais vu, where there is a discrepancy between actual perception of a scene and the memory, or its lack, of what is being seen. They also include depersonalization, with a feeling of unreality even though one knows who one is. Normal self-monitoring is not related to actual performance, so that diminished ability may be accompanied by heightened emotion which makes one believe one is functioning at a high level of cognitive efficiency. The sense of well-being is likely to be accompanied by diminished self-criticism. In the search for consciousness broadening, 'highs' or psychedelic experiences there is a reduction in self-judgement and relief from responsibility. All involve a diffusion of ego individuality. While being convinced of heightened sensitivity and mental acuity, the individual's cognitive functioning is actually impaired. There may be intensified sensory input or diminished input (such as in meditation techniques). Inconsistency is even more apparent in the hypnotic and post-hypnotic states.