Observer Dreams: Criteria and Frequency

Abstract

Numerous theories of dreaming consider embodied self-representation and participation in dream events as key features. However, past studies suggest that the dream self is absent or an uninvolved observer in over 10% of adult REM dreams. Further, these dreams can be similarly elaborate and of comparable narrative structure to participatory dreams. The current study presents new criteria for observer dreams informed and illustrated by reports from adult dream series. Three types of observer status are described: (I) no embodied self-representation, (II) an essentially disembodied self that sees events from within the dream environment, and (III) an embodied self that observes events virtually, often on TV. All types require observation of events or an activity with dynamic flow. The new criteria are used to determine observer dream frequencies in the dream reports from Hall and Van de Castle's 1963-1964 University of Miami study. The overall percentage of observer dreams in the Miami reports was 13.1%, and Type I was the most frequent (8.0% of all reports). Past studies show that observer dreams are more frequent in children and older adults than in young adults. An exploratory investigation of age differences in the current study was consistent with this, suggesting a rise in observer dreams from young adulthood. Additionally, direct physical aggression was found in around 20% of observer dreams, with potential implications for the threat simulation hypothesis of dream function. This study's findings suggest that observer dreams warrant greater consideration, including integration into theories of dreaming.