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Use Of Dream Psychodynamic Therapy : A Look At Different Perspectives

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The Use of Dream Interpretation in Psychodynamic Therapy:
A Look at Different Perspectives
Daryl Tilghman
Fielding Graduate University
“I affirm that this is my original work and has not been copied or plagiarized from any other sources, nor has it been previously submitted for academic credit. This electronic message counts as my signature”
Introduction
A dream, by definition, is a sequence of emotions, ideas, images, and sensations that involuntarily occur in the mind at various times; typically during the rapid-eye movement (REM) stage of sleep (American Heritage Dictionary, 2000). Throughout history, dreams have been the cause of much speculation; holding both philosophical and religious interests (Hobson, 2009). Before the days of scientific research, opinions varied regarding dreams, and their usefulness in psychotherapy. Dreams were often viewed as either being divinely inspired or having derived from a dark, evil source. Even in today’s scientifically advanced society; dreams are still not totally understood.
Sigmund Freud, the father and creator of psychoanalysis, developed a therapeutic technique called “free association.” This technique encourages patients to use anything that comes into mind while the session is in progress, and to not withhold any thoughts. This technique is designed to assist patients in understanding what he/she is both thinking and feeling, without receiving any judgment. The assumption is that people experience conflicts between

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