9.2.2 Activation-Synthesis Theory

• What does the Activation-Synthesis Theory suggest about dreams?

  Side effect of neurological activity
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory is based on the brain's neurobiology during REM
• The pons sends random neural signals to the cortex during REM sleep.
• What role does the cortex play in the Activation-Synthesis Theory?

  Synthesizes dream narratives
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory suggests that dreams do not have inherent meaning
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory is universally accepted and without criticism.

  False
• Which brain structure activates random neural signals during REM sleep according to the Activation-Synthesis Theory?

  Pons
• The pons sends random signals to the cortex during REM sleep.
• The cortex synthesizes random neural signals into a coherent dream narrative.
• What might random signals to the visual cortex result in during a dream?

  Vivid scene
• Match the process with its description according to the Activation-Synthesis Theory:

  Activation ↔️ Pons sends random signals

  Synthesis ↔️ Cortex interprets signals
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory involves random neural activation in the brain during REM sleep.
• Dreams are formed when the cortex interprets random signals from the pons.
• Which brain region synthesizes random neural signals into dreams during REM sleep?

  Cortex
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory proposes that dreams originate from random signals sent by the pons
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory suggests that dreams are a byproduct of neurological activity.
• What is the first step in the Activation-Synthesis Theory process during REM sleep?

  Activation
• In the Activation-Synthesis Theory, the cortex interprets random neural signals during the synthesis phase.
• Which brain region sends random signals to the cortex during REM sleep according to the Activation-Synthesis Theory?

  Pons
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory implies that dreams are meaningless and not representations of unconscious desires.
• Match the theory with its view on dreams and key aspect:

  Activation-Synthesis ↔️ Meaningless, random neurological activity

  Freud's Psychoanalytic ↔️ Meaningful, unconscious thoughts
• Which theory contrasts with the Activation-Synthesis Theory in its view on the meaning of dreams?

  Freud's Psychoanalytic Theory
• What does the Activation-Synthesis Theory propose is the cause of dreams?

  Random neural signals
• According to the Activation-Synthesis Theory, a dream about flying is a result of random neural signals to the visual cortex
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory suggests that dreams are meaningful representations of unconscious thoughts.

  False
• What is the key aspect of Freud's Psychoanalytic Theory regarding dreams?

  Symbolism and repression
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory provides a more neurobiological explanation for dreams
• Order the steps involved in critically evaluating the Activation-Synthesis Theory.

  1️⃣ Consider its strengths

  2️⃣ Consider its weaknesses

  3️⃣ Analyze empirical evidence

  4️⃣ Compare it with other theories
• Match the theoretical aspect with its corresponding strength or weakness:

  Explanation of Dreams ↔️ Provides neurobiological basis

  Empirical Support ↔️ Supported by brain activity evidence
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory explains random neural signals but has limited explanation for dream variability
• The Activation-Synthesis Theory can explain why some people have recurring dreams with specific themes.

  False
• What does Freud's Psychoanalytic Theory suggest is the source of dreams?

  Unconscious thoughts