Blagrove and Colleagues 2019
- tested the relationship between dream sharing and empathy
- propose, dreams are a novel but realistic simulation of waking life
- they propose that sharing of dreams has an empathetic effect on the dreamer and on others who hear the dream
Vann and Alperstein 2010
- found 97.9% had told a dream to someone and that dreams were told to entertain
- concluded that dream sharing serves as a means to bring individuals together
Ljams and Miller 2000
results indicated that dream-disclosure enhanced feelings of intimacy and trust
Duffy 2004
dream sharing can also enhance martial relationships through providing a forum for self-awareness
Schredl 2010
found that 14.5% of dreams are shared, mainly with romantic partners, friends, relatives and that sharing is associated with enhancement of relational intimacy and stress relief
theoretical consequences of dream-sharing
social function
- serves by fostering empathy and interpersonal connection - dreams may provide a window into individuals inner world
empathy and perspective taking
- discussing dreams can enhance understanding and emotional resonance between individuals
Generalizability and indivdual differences of dream sharing
dream sharing on empathy vary depending on individual differences such as
- social dynamics and cultural norms
future research on dream sharing
should explore potential mediators and moderators of the relationship between dream sharing and empathy
dream sharing enhancing Theory of mind
- ability to understand others mental states
- by sharing dreams individuals provide insights into their inner worlds, this promoting understanding and empathy
the emotional content of dreams
- can evoke empathy by triggering similar emotions in listeners
- sharing emotional experiences can foster empathy and social bonds
cognitive theories suggest
- dreams reflect waking life concerns
- sharing these can enhance mutual understanding and empathy
- reinforcing idea that cognitive processes during sleep have social functions
in group settings
- dream sharing activities can enhance group cohesion by promoting empathy and mutual understanding.
- this improving group dynamics
