Assumption 1 - Dream analysis

Question 1

Why dream analysis should be used in the psychodynamic approach?

Answer 1

Dream analysis should be used in therapy to uncover dreams meanings. It can show true colours, insecurities and potential minor experiences that have actually impacted peoples lives. A persons dream about a break up with a door can be seen as a defense mechanism from the unconscious mind. They can display tripartite personality and childhood experiences that can help identify present problems.

Question 2

What is step 1 of the dream analysis?

Answer 2

The dreamer recalls their dream to their therapist. What the dreamer remembers (the story of the dream) is reffered to as latent content.

Question 3

What is step 2 of dream analysis?

Answer 3

The process of a dream work is applied to understand the dream. Dream work is when the latent content is transferred to the manifest content.

Question 4

What is step 3 of dream analysis?

Answer 4

• Condensation: Detail and content is condensed to brief images (where one image stands for several occasions and ideas).
• Displacement: The emotional significance of a dream is attached to an insignificant different object/content it has been censored.
• Representation: A thought translated into visual images.
• Symbolism: A symbol replaces an actual person/idea.
• Secondary Elaboration: Unconscious mind collects all the different images and ties them together to form a logical story - may come from recent events in their life.

Question 5

What is step 4 of the process for dream analysis?

Answer 5

• Reverse the dream work process by decoding the manifest content back to the latent content.
• Offer several interpretations based on patients feedback and life experiences.
• Allow the patient to pick those that make sense.