Denholm J Aspy

2 papers in the library · publishing 2015-2016

Papers

Is dream recall underestimated by retrospective measures and enhanced by keeping a logbook? An empirical investigation.

Consciousness and Cognition May 1, 2016 Denholm J Aspy

Retrospective questionnaires asking people how often they remember dreams produce lower recall rates than daily logbooks, a gap called the retrospective-logbook disparity. One explanation is that retrospective measures underestimate true dream recall; another is that keeping a logbook boosts recall. This study tested both possibilities using several retrospective and logbook measures across three logbook types. The disparity correlated with variables tied to retrospective underestimation and was larger among participants who reported improved recall during the logbook period. The findings suggest that retrospective measures underestimate dream recall and that keeping a logbook enhances it. Recommendations for using each measurement method are offered.

DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2016.03.015 Full text Dream recall Dream diaries Methodology Self-report methods

Is dream recall underestimated by retrospective measures and enhanced by keeping a logbook? A review.

Consciousness and Cognition May 1, 2015 Denholm J Aspy, Paul Delfabbro, Michael Proeve

Two methods are commonly used to measure dream recall at home: retrospective questionnaires (a single question asking people to estimate their recall) and daily logbooks. Retrospective measures tend to yield lower dream recall rates than logbooks. One explanation is that retrospective measures underestimate actual dream recall; another is that keeping a logbook enhances recall. If both effects occur, neither method reflects typical dream recall rates, and each may be confounded with variables linked to underestimation or enhancement. This review addresses the insufficient attention this issue has received.

DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2015.02.005 Full text Dream recall Dream diaries Methodology Self-report methods