Acute inadequate sleep can increase the risk of which of the following?

Acute inadequate sleep significantly increases the risk of car accidents due to its impact on various cognitive functions and physical coordination. When a person does not get enough sleep, their ability to focus, react quickly, and make sound judgments deteriorates. This impairment is similar to being under the influence of alcohol, which can lead to slower reaction times and misjudgments while driving.

Drowsiness affects alertness and can cause lapses in attention, making it difficult for individuals to respond to road conditions or other drivers effectively. Studies show that sleep-deprived individuals are more likely to exhibit poor driving performance, resulting in a higher risk of accidents.

In contrast, the other options suggest positive outcomes—enhanced cognitive abilities, improved decision-making, and increased social interaction—none of which are outcomes associated with inadequate sleep. These aspects typically rely on proper rest to function optimally, further clarifying why the risk of car accidents is directly linked to inadequate sleep.