Evaluate dream analysis (10)

• Effectiveness of Dream Analysis

  • P: Although dream analysis is rooted in unobservable concepts, research has provided support for its effectiveness in revealing unconscious processes.

  • E: Solms (2000) used PET scans to show that during REM sleep, the rational prefrontal cortex is inactive while emotional and motivational centres are highly active. This aligns with Freud’s theory that the id dominates during dreaming. Additionally, Hopfield et al. (1983) used neural network simulations to show memory condensation, which supports Freud’s concept of dreamwork.

  • E: However, much of this research lacks ecological validity, as studies are conducted in artificial lab settings with participants often sleep-deprived or wired to machines. Moreover, dream content is self-reported and interpreted by the therapist, making it highly subjective and hard to scientifically verify.
• Effectiveness of dream analysis LINK

  • L: therefore, while neurological + computational studies lend partial support to Freud’s ideas, overall effectiveness of dream analysis weakened by methodological and interpretative limitations
• Ethical issues

  • P: Psychodynamic therapies like dream analysis raise significant ethical concerns, particularly around power dynamics + false memories

  • E: therapist holds expert authority interpreting unconscious content, making the client overly dependent, especially vulnerable individuals like those with depression. In extreme cases, clients develop False Memory Syndrome (FMS) — strongly believing fabricated memories uncovered in therapy. Toon et al. (1996) suggested some therapists may unconsciously encourage FMS for financial gain.

  • E: Furthermore, uncovering traumatic material in dreams leads to emotional harm, potentially leaving the client more distressed than before. Although informed consent required, clients may not fully grasp emotional toll until the process begins.

  • L: These ethical risks challenge the acceptability of dream analysis, with FMS or emotional distress outcomes outweighing the potential benefits.
• Conclusion

  While dream analysis can offer insight into unconscious, its subjective nature + ethical pitfalls, like client dependency and risk of false memories, limits both its effectiveness and appropriateness in therapy. As such, psychodynamic therapies may require stricter guidelines to ensure ethical + scientific standards are met