There are several theories about why we dream: 1) Dreams process information during sleep as a byproduct. 2) Dreams represent unconscious desires. 3) Dreams interpret brain signals during sleep. 4) External stimuli can influence dreams. To interpret dreams, one must examine the dream's objects, figures, actions, setting, characters, interactions, and outcome. Recurring dreams often reflect an unresolved issue or life transition and can highlight fears or weaknesses. Common dream symbols like falling, being chased, and death can represent insecurity, avoidance, loss of control, new beginnings, and more.

1. DREAM INTERPRETATION
Why do we dream anyway?
No one really knows why we dream, but
there are the top 7 theories on why we do.
1. We sleep to process information
and dreams are just a byproduct of
this cycle.
2. Dreams may represent our
unconscious desires.
3. The Activation- Synthesis Model of
Dreaming : Dreams are an
interpretation of brain signals.
4. External stimuli interpretation : For
example, music that you’re hearing
could be apart of your dream.
5. Dreams clean up mind clutter.
6. Dreams provide psychotherapy .
7. A combination of theories : As you
dream, your brain loses
connections between thoughts and
ideas which are shaped by your
emotions. (Cherry, 2019)
How do we interpret dreams?
Calvin S. Hall proposed that dreams are part of a
cognitive process where dreams serve as
“conceptions” of elements of our personal lives.
According to Hall’s theory, to interpret a dream we
must know the things that occur within the dream
such as :
● The objects and figures
● The actions of the dreamer
● The dream’s setting, characters and outcome
● The interactions between the dreamer and
the characters (Cherry, 2019)
Recurring Dreams
Most dreams contain messages that serve to teach you
something about yourself. Usually you forget them easily,
but when you remember a dream the message in it might
be so powerful that it refuses to go away. Recurring
dreams are often triggered by a transitional phase in your
life, certain life situation, or problem that keeps coming
back. These dreams may be highlighting a personal
weakness, fear, or inability to cope with something in
your past or present life. (Dream Moods, 2013)
Common Dream Diagnosis
Falling dreams may suggest -
loss of control, insecurity,
and/or reckless behavior
Dreams where you are being
chased may signify -
avoidance, close-mindedness,
fear, and/or running away
from yourself
Death dreams can mean -
new beginnings, a part of you
have died, a wake-up call,
escape, coping with death,
self-sacrifices, resentment
and/or lacking of certain
characteristics. (Dream
Moods, 2013)
Camryn Cummings