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Activation-Synthesis Model

Definition

The activation-synthesis model is a theory that suggests dreams are a result of random neural activity in the brain during REM sleep, which is then interpreted by the brain into a story or narrative.

Analogy

Imagine your brain as a DJ at a party. During REM sleep, the DJ randomly plays different tunes (neural activity) and your brain tries to make sense of these songs by creating a playlist (dreams).

Related terms

Cognitive Theory: This alternative view proposes that dreams are meaningful and can be analyzed to gain insight into emotions, thoughts, and desires.

Psychoanalytic Theory: This theory developed by Sigmund Freud suggests that dreams have hidden meanings related to unconscious desires and conflicts.

Threat Simulation Theory: According to this theory, dreaming serves as an evolutionary adaptation for simulating potential threatening scenarios to enhance survival skills.