Questions and Answers
What is the function of dreams?
Explain Freud's wish-fulfillment dream theory.
Dreams provide a psychic safety valve - expressing otherwise unacceptable feelings and contain manifest and latent content.
What is a critical consideration of Freud's wish-fulfillment dream theory?
It lacks any scientific support and dreams may be interpreted in many different ways.
What does information processing theory explain about dreams?
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What is a critical consideration of information processing theory?
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Explain the physiological function theory of dreams.
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What is a critical consideration of physiological function theory?
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What does activation-synthesis theory state about dreams?
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What is a critical consideration of activation-synthesis theory?
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Explain cognitive development theory as it relates to dreams.
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What is a critical consideration of cognitive development theory?
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Study Notes
Functions of Dreams
- Dreams satisfy personal wishes and emotions.
- They serve to file away memories from daily experiences.
- Dreams help develop and preserve neural pathways.
- They make sense of random neural activity during sleep.
- Dreams reflect cognitive development, showcasing mental growth.
Freud's Wish-Fulfillment Theory
- Dreams function as a "psychic safety valve," expressing unacceptable feelings.
- Contains two layers: manifest content (actual dream content) and latent content (hidden meaning).
Critique of Freud's Theory
- Lacks scientific support for the interpretations of dreams.
- Dreams can be interpreted in numerous ways, reducing theory reliability.
Information Processing Theory
- Dreams assist in sorting daily events and consolidating memories for retention.
- Proposes a link between dreaming and memory enhancement.
Critique of Information Processing Theory
- Raises questions about dreams related to experiences not personally encountered.
Physiological Function Theory
- Regular brain stimulation during REM sleep is believed to promote neural pathway development and preservation.
Critique of Physiological Function Theory
- While valid, it does not clarify the significance of meaningful dreams experienced by individuals.
Activation-Synthesis Theory
- REM sleep initiates neural activity that triggers random visual memories, forming narrative stories in dreams.
Critique of Activation-Synthesis Theory
- The dream narrative reveals insights about the dreamer’s psyche, suggesting personal relevance.
Cognitive Development Theory
- Dream content mirrors the dreamer's cognitive abilities, reflecting their level of knowledge and understanding.
Critique of Cognitive Development Theory
- Fails to address the underlying neuroscience involved in dreaming processes.
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Description
Explore the various theories of dreams within AP Psychology, focusing on their functions and meanings. This quiz will help reinforce your understanding of dream content and psychological interpretations.