Johnson, Charlotte (2010) The therapeutic value of dreams and nightmares. DClinPsych thesis, University of Warwick.

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Abstract

Although dreams have fascinated humans for millennia, the function of dreams
and nightmares is a matter of ongoing debate in the fields of neurophysiology,
evolutionary psychology and cognitive psychology. Some authors argue that
nightmares are purely a by-product of neurophysiological processes that occur
during sleep, whilst others suggest that they serve some kind of adaptive
function. What is widely recognised, however, is the link between nightmares
and psychological well-being. Research indicates that clients frequently bring
dreams to therapy and that dream work can improve the psychological wellbeing
of individuals who are experiencing distressing dreams. Clinicians do not
have a great deal of training in dream work, however, and do not always know
how to approach working with dreams.
Chapter 1.
The first chapter offers an overview of the theories proposing that dreams and
nightmares play a role in affect regulation. Subsequently the empirical evidence
for these theories is critically appraised and synthesised. Some support is offered
for the overnight mood regulation theory of dreaming, and there is contrary
evidence to suggest that nightmares negatively impact on mood and behaviour.
Chapter 2.
The second chapter reports on the findings from a mixed methodology design.
Initially the prevalence of dream work across three NHS Trusts in the UK was
investigated through a questionnaire-based survey. Secondly, the experiences of
clinicians who use dream work in therapy in the NHS were explored through indepth
semi-structured interviews. Five main themes emerged from the qualitative
analysis of the data: benefits of using dream work, barriers to using dream work,
dream work in practice, personal experience of dreaming and dream work and
dream work in the wider context.
Chapter 3.
The third chapter explores the lead author’s own dreams over the duration of the
research process, specifically examining these in light of dream and dream work
theory.

Item Type:	Thesis or Dissertation (DClinPsych)
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology R Medicine > RC Internal medicine
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Dreams, Psychotherapy -- Great Britain
Official Date:	May 2010
Dates:	Date Event May 2010 Submitted
Institution:	University of Warwick
Theses Department:	Department of Psychology
Thesis Type:	DClinPsych
Publication Status:	Unpublished
Supervisor(s)/Advisor:	Patterson, Thomas, 1966- ; Sutcliffe, Alison
Description:	Completed in conjunction with Coventry University. School of Health and Social Sciences.
Extent:	viii, 182 leaves
Language:	eng

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