Dream as a subject of psychological research

• Main Author: P.A. Egorova
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Moscow State University of Psychology and Education 2014-08-01
• Series: Психологическая наука и образование (2007. Online)
• Subjects: psychology; dream; teenagers; abilities; moral choice; psychological counseling
• Online Access: http://psyedu.ru/files/articles/psyedu_ru_2014_1_Egorova.pdf

We discuss the main theoretical concepts of a dream: dream definitions, ideas about its genesis, functions, dream location in the structure of activity. We analyze the similarities and differences between the approaches. The results of empirical studies of adolescent and adult dreams are generalized, dream functions in adolescence are analyzed. Based on the analysis of different approaches, we chose theoretical basis of our own research – A. Leontiev activity theory, L.S. Vygotsky concept, K. Lewin's model. We formulated and substantiated the definition of dream as emotionally colored image of the desired future, having a subjective significance. We show the significance and hypotheses of our research: 1) the content of dreams is connected not only with a situation of frustration, but also with the teenager abilities, 2) the dream is involved in regulating of values choice; 3) restoration and development of the ability to dream can be used in the practice of counseling and psychotherapy as an effective tool to help adolescents and adults