1185 Predicting Dream Recall and Sharing: The Role of Childhood Experiences, Mental Health, and Dream Phenomena
Sleep May 19, 2025 Emily Feldman, Rebecca Essien, Danya Husein et al.
Childhood nightmares predict more frequent dream recall and dream sharing, but current psychological factors and attitudes toward dreams are stronger predictors. Among 360 undergraduates, childhood nightmares were linked to higher dream recall and more sharing. Current psychological distress predicted lower dream recall, while PTSD symptoms and distress were associated with less dream sharing. Insomnia severity, more dream sharing, perceived caregiver warmth, and fewer sleep-related phenomena were linked to increased dream recall. Negative dream attitudes, fewer sleep-related phenomena, and more déjà vu experiences predicted greater dream sharing. The findings indicate that early sleep experiences, mental health, and dream-related attitudes interact to shape dream recall and sharing patterns.