Most recent dreams vs. diary dreams: A methodological note
International Journal of Dream Research June 19, 2020 DOI: 10.11588/ijodr.2020.2.73639 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Comparative content analysis of dream reports from independent samples Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 579 |
| Population | Dreams collected from psychology students: 169 most recent dreams and 410 diary dreams |
| Key points | Most recent dreams were rated as more bizarre and as containing more intense negative emotions than diary dreams, based on a comparison of 169 most recent dreams and 410 diary dreams from similar student samples. The authors conclude that more research is needed to understand what factors contribute to these differences. |
Abstract
Dream content analytic studies rely on dream reports that can be obtained via different collection methods, e.g., REM sleep awakenings in the sleep lab, diaries, and eliciting the most recent dream. Whereas differences between lab and home dreams have been documented, systematic research regarding the differences between most recent dreams and diary dreams is scarce. The present analyses compared 169 most recent dreams and 410 diary dreams collected in independent samples with similar background (psychology students). The results clearly indicate that most recent dreams are more bizarre and include more intense negative emotions when compared to diary dreams. More research is warranted to increase the understanding what factors might contribute to the differences between most recent dreams and diary dreams.