What type of seizure is known as 'grand mal'?

'Grand mal' seizures, now more commonly referred to as generalized tonic-clonic seizures, are characterized by their severity and the presence of convulsions. During a grand mal seizure, the individual experiences a loss of consciousness, followed by two distinct phases: the tonic phase, where the muscles stiffen, and the clonic phase, involving rhythmic jerking of the limbs. This type of seizure affects the entire brain and can result in significant physical manifestations, such as muscle contractions and potential injury from falling. Understanding this characterization is crucial for identifying and differentiating types of seizures effectively, especially in educational and medical settings focused on special education and developmental disabilities.