How Dream Interpretation Works

In order to interpret dreams, Sigmund Freud created methods by which a person's dreams may be studied and analyzed through the concepts of psychology. Through dream interpretation, Sigmund Freud believed that it is possible to unlock a person's subconscious including the suppressed desires and unfulfilled wishes.

Because of the monograph of Freud, "The Interpretation of Dreams," psychologists and psychoanalysts were able to see the possible role of dreams in the study of a person's mind. This led to the development of the "continuity hypothesis," which implies that the content of an individual's dream may not be separated from the reality. In addition, the person's dream is a reflection of the individual's interests, feeling and concerns.

Now, the most common methods of dream interpretation are not through the consultation of a divine dream interpreter or through the help of a psychoanalyst. In the modern-day dream interpretation, dream dictionaries are used to give meaning to a person's dreams. However, the content of dream dictionaries may vary depending if a dictionary is based on the scientific interpretation or on the traditional interpretation. Cultural influence may also affect the interpretation listed in the dream dictionaries.

The interpretation of dreams may also be done online. Dream sharing is done by groups of persons to better help them understand their dreams. There are websites that offer dream interpretation. The person just needs to post the key elements of the dream or tell the whole story to the interpreter. There are also dream blogs to help a person note his or her dreams.

More on Dream Interpretation: