What does consciousness refer to?

Consciousness refers to the awareness of one's own mental processes, thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. It involves being conscious and responsive to stimuli, demonstrating an ability to perceive and reflect upon one's own experiences and cognitive functions. This definition encompasses the full scope of awareness, including what individuals are thinking about, their current emotional state, and how they perceive their environment.

The other choices highlight states that imply a diminished or absent awareness. A state of deep sleep, a lack of awareness, and a state of unconsciousness all indicate conditions where consciousness is not present or is significantly impaired. In contrast, awareness of mental processes embodies the essence of being conscious, highlighting the active engagement with one's own mind and the ability to process information consciously.