On the Functions of Dreamtelling in the Context of Group Dynamics

Abstract

This article provides a brief review of the development of psychoanalytic views on the function, role and use of dreams in therapy. Dream telling is considered to be associated with a specific stage of group development. It is assumed that telling and processing dreams in the group aids members in restoring the integrity of their ‘inner image of the group’ when this integrity is threatened by conflicts. Telling and processing dreams in the group is also perceived as capable of performing other functions: alleviation of separation anxiety, a ‘levelling and regulating’ effect on the dreamer’s involvement in the group process, and the alignment of the positions of group members in terms of meeting the challenges of group development. Both the resistance and the motivation for development are always simultaneously present in dream telling. Which trend will prevail at any given moment depends on the particular situation in the group analytical process.