Dream Analysis: Analysis Of The Dream Theory

Dream analysis endeavours to discover what a dream is, the role and the meaning behind them, with the aim of gaining insight into the working of the unconscious mind. This topic has been intensely theorised about with questions raised regarding the methods of interpretation, translation and reliability. This paper discusses the theoretical perspectives held by two of the most influential contributors to the dream theory. Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung found value in analysing dreams, however their beliefs differed significantly despite sharing the same roots in psychoanalysis. Discord between theorists has prompted a need for further investigation, as a number of fields are presenting their theories in recent decades, to delve into the meanings

This is the process were actual unconscious works of the dream, through analysis and interpretation form an experience which is verbally or non-verbally expressed. Jung found this a vital key in understanding the individuation and transcendence of a person, revolving around the self or “I” (Deslauriers, 1995). Freud on the other hand, viewed this as censors which deviated one from reaching the latent material. He believed that the censorship, to a large extent, censored most aspects of a dream even during translation and could lead to transference or even resistance. Freud found little importance in other aspects of dream interpretation other that exposing the underlying conflicts which lead to neurotic behaviour. In contract, Jung placed value on all aspects of the dream material, emotional behaviour and the process of individuation reflected through the

Rather, the focus is on fragments of the dream that have been censored by the dream-work. I begin by examining where the dream-work has been displaced, condensed and dramatized. Filtering this out, one is left with a few core aspects in which associations need to be made. One also has to seek the dream wish and any symbols present in the dream. Some of the signs or symbols present in the dream are lack of male presence, childhood classmate, the birth process, tub of water and a baby.

It can be suggested that the dream condensed and displaced the birth and lack of male attendance by including the entrance and exit of the cabin, the birth process and feelings surrounding this. I identify childhood trauma or unfulfilled wishes such as love and affection found in the phallic stage by my father. By linking the apparent lack of male presence and the birth of a boy, it could be suggested a fulfilment of this desire occurred in terms of the Electra complex. That is where a girl seeks approval, love and acceptance from their father for their sexual identity (Corey, 2013). This unfulfilled wish appears to be fulfilled in the dream through my son and can signify a rebirth or satisfaction of this unconditional love and affection from my