Dreams of Recovering Alcoholics: Mood, Dream Content, Discovery, and the Storytelling Method of Dream Interpretation

Abstract

The current study examined the dream content and dream meaning (discovery) via The Storytelling Method of Dream Interpretation (TSM) from the dreams of recovering alcoholics (N=29) compared to a matched sample of non-alcoholics (N=29).  The study also examined the dreams and meaning of dreams in relation to waking day mood.  Findings from the study revealed that the dreams of recovering alcoholics differ significantly from non-alcoholics and the dreams provide insight into the mood of recovering alcoholics.  Discovery via TSM was found to be relevant, meaningful, and helpful in terms of waking life issues.  Furthermore, regression analyses provide predictive evidence of discovery from the dream content for recovering alcoholics.  Analyses comparing discovery categories revealed that the major discovery categories for recovering alcoholics include: sobriety, past events, emotions, and a positive future.  It appears that TSM is a useful mode of therapy for gaining insight into recovery of alcohol addiction and waking day mood.  Limitations, future research, and clinical applications are discussed.