Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Vivid dreaming refers to the experience of having highly detailed and memorable dreams during sleep. These dreams often feel lifelike and can evoke strong emotions.
Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep is the stage of sleep where vivid dreaming most commonly occurs. During this stage, our eyes move rapidly under our closed eyelids, and our brain activity resembles that of being awake.
Sleep Cycles: Sleep consists of alternating cycles between REM sleep (where vivid dreaming occurs) and non-REM sleep. These cycles repeat throughout the night.
Lucid dreaming is when a person becomes aware that they are dreaming during a dream. It allows individuals to have some control over their dream content and actions.