What Does Your Dreams Actually Mean?
Psych 🧠- 298/300
Reader,
I hope you’re doing absolutely fine as you read this fresh piece on Dream Psychology.
Oh, and I also hope you’ve engaged in some Selftalk.ing already. (I’m very hopeful)
What is it?
This one article presents a new neurocognitive theory of dreaming developed by dream expert G. William Domhoff.
This theory proposes that dreaming is not a unique phenomenon, but rather an extension of our waking cognitive abilities, specifically mind-wandering or daydreaming.
It suggests that dreams and daydreams arise from the same brain network, known as the "default network," and involve similar processes of embodied simulation and vivid imagery.
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What do I need to know?
By linking dreaming to mind-wandering, Domhoff's theory provides a framework for understanding the nature and function of dreams within the broader context of human cognition.
Dreams are embodied simulations: Dreams feel real because they activate the brain's imagery network and create a sense of being a participant in the dream events.
Dreams are highly personal: Because the default network includes parts of the "self network," dreams tend to focus on personal concerns and reflect the dreamer's current life experiences.
Dreaming develops with age: Children's dreams become more frequent and complex as their brains develop and the default network becomes more integrated.
Dreaming may not have an evolutionary function: Domhoff argues that dreaming is likely an accidental byproduct of our waking cognitive abilities, rather than an adaptation with a specific purpose.
Key takeaways:
Dreaming is not a mysterious phenomenon, but rather a natural extension of our waking thought processes.
The content of our dreams reflects our personal concerns and experiences.
Understanding dreaming can help us better understand the human mind and how it works.
Reference:
https://news.ucsc.edu/2017/10/domhoff-dreams.html