Activation-Synthesis Hypothesis

Definition

The Activation-Synthesis Hypothesis is a theory proposed by J. Allan Hobson and Robert McCarley that suggests dreams are a result of random neural activity in the brain being interpreted and synthesized into a coherent story during REM sleep.

Related terms

REM Sleep:

A stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movements, increased brain activity, vivid dreaming, and muscle paralysis.

Neural Activity:

Electrical impulses and communication between neurons in the brain.

Coherent Story: A narrative or plotline that makes sense and has logical connections throughout.