The EEG showed a commotion of activity in the area of the cingulate cortex, a part of the brain that controls regulation of emotions and certain motor functions. While there was activity in this area, there was no activity in the prefrontal cortex, which governs higher mental functioning. Nevertheless, researchers are far from knowing exactly what causes this to happen and how to stop it. During the episode, the sleepwalker may simply sit up and appear awake while actually asleep or they may get up and walk around. They may even perform complex activities such as moving furniture, going to the bathroom, dressing and undressing, and similar activities.
Some people even drive a car while actually asleep.
One common misconception is that a sleepwalker should not be awakened. It is not dangerous to awaken a sleepwalker, although it is common for the person to be confused or disoriented for a short time on awakening. Another misconception is that a person cannot be injured when sleepwalking. Often treatment is unnecessary, except when the health or safety of the individual is being threatened. Often the person can trip over objects, walk out of the house, fall out of windows, or injure themselves with sharp objects like knives.