Answer the following questions :
- What is a dream?
- Why do we dream?
- Comment on the contribution of Sigmund Freud in interpreting dreams.
- What do you think about how much science has been successful in interpreting dreams?
- Describe the characteristics of dream in 2/3 sentences.
. a) A dream refers to any of the images, thoughts and emotions that are experienced during sleep. It can be remarkably vivid or vague, filled with joyful emotions or frightening images.
b) According to Sigmund Freud, dream is a way of expressing our subconscious desires, repressed wishes and conflicts. Since these thoughts cannot be consciously expressed, we dream as a way to express those conflicting and unacceptable desires.
c) Sigmund Freud made significant contributions to the interpretation of dreams through his psychoanalytical theory. He believed that dreams are expressions of subconscious desires, thoughts and motivations. In his famous book "The Interpretation of Dreams (1899)", he explained dreams as disguised fulfillments of repressed wishes.
d) Science has made significant progress in interpreting various aspects of dreams, also developed theories about the potential purposes of dreaming. However, it is still unravelling the exact purpose and functions of dreams. Science is trying its best to unearth the ins and outs of dream; yet it has not been fully successful in its attempts.
(e) There are some prominent characteristics of dream. First of all, dream can be extraordinarily vivid or very e vague, filled with pleasant emotions or frightening, images. Moreover, dreams can be focused and understandable or unclear and confusing. Also, it may be a reflection of our subconscious desires, thoughts.