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Keywords

psychoanalysis, dreams, Freud, dream dictionary, BYU, Hill

Abstract

An examination of the history of dream interpretation reveals its significant role within psychotherapy, drawing upon religious texts, ancient philosophers, and modern uses. Many prominent psychologists such as Freud and Jung contributed to our knowledge of dreams and how they can be interpreted. The problems clinicians face today is that most methods for analyzing dreams are scattered and contrary. Several specific theories, from Freudian theory to the Hill Cognitive-Experiential Model of dream interpretation, are discussed and analyzed. Research has slowed on this topic due to methodological problems and diverse interpretations of dream content. Subsequently, the potential benefits of using dream analysis is shown, as well as methods that have proven useful. Those who use dream interpretation have consistently have achieved desired results (Pesant & Zarda, 2004). Using dream interpretation in therapeutic settings can help therapists better understand and aid their clients. Clara Hill (2004) suggests a set method known as the cognitive-experiential model, which integrates aspects from several existing dream theories to help clients explore their dreams, gain insight into their meaning, and take action to resolve issues in their waking life. Further research is necessary to determine the reliability and validity of this method, and whether it should be broadly implemented.

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