Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
Dream theory refers to various psychological theories that aim to explain the purpose and meaning of dreams. These theories explore the idea that dreams serve as a way for the brain to process unresolved problems or thoughts from the day.
Related terms
Activation-Synthesis Theory: This theory suggests that dreams are a result of random neural activity in the brain during REM sleep and our attempt to make sense of it.
Cognitive Theory of Dreams: According to this theory, dreams reflect cognitive processes such as problem-solving and memory consolidation.