Interpretation of Sleep/Freud

Instructions:

For centuries, dreams have been at the heart of attempts to understand the past, current, and even future behaviors of individuals because somehow they are linked to a paranormal or metaphysical state of mind. One of the more quasi-scientific works on dreams was completed by Sigmund Freud (1856–1939), an Austrian neurologist. The Interpretation of Dreams, a book he wrote in 1900, is still widely popular. (You can Google the keywords “The Interpretation of Dreams” for further information on this book.)

Freud used his interpretation of dreams to understand an individual’s subconscious and, in doing so, attempted to understand the individual’s behavior and personality based on that individual’s past experiences. The purpose of this essay is to examine whether or not Freud was right. This assignment will challenge your critical-thinking skills in determining the science behind dream interpretation.

The first thing you need to do is to research both sides of the question. Find articles related to sleep dreams, and Freud’s interpretation of dreams.

Based on your research, answer the following questions in your essay:

-What is the biological basis of sleep and dreams? Where do dreams occur in the cycle of sleep, and why are they important to our psychological well-being?

-How did Freud use dreams to help people understand their behaviors? What evidence did he use to support the contention that dream analysis is a valid way of treating mental illnesses? Did the evidence he provide support his claims?

-What are the current ideas regarding Freud’s dream analysis? What do you conclude about using the method of interpreting dreams to treat mental illness?