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Chapter 5: Problem 9

The activation-synthesis theory of dreaming contends that: A. dreams are simply the by-product of bursts of activity in the brain. B. dreams provide an outlet for energy invested in socially undesirable impulses. C. dreams represent the person's attempt to fulfill unconscious wishes. D. dreams are an attempt to restore a neurotransmitter balance within the brain.

Short Answer

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A) Dreams are simply the byproduct of bursts of activity in the brain. B) Dreams provide an outlet for energy invested in socially undesirable impulses. C) Dreams represent the person's attempt to fulfill unconscious wishes. D) Dreams are an attempt to restore a neurotransmitter balance within the brain. Answer: A) Dreams are simply the byproduct of bursts of activity in the brain.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the Activation-Synthesis Theory of Dreaming

The Activation-Synthesis Theory of Dreaming states that dreams are the brain’s attempt to make sense of random neural signals that occur during sleep, particularly during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage. The theory suggests that dreams are created by the brain as it tries to find meaning in these random neural signals.
02

Evaluate Option A

"Dreams are simply the byproduct of bursts of activity in the brain." This option aligns with the activation-synthesis theory because it suggests that dreams are not necessarily purposeful but rather the result of random brain activity. Keep this option in mind.
03

Evaluate Option B

"Dreams provide an outlet for energy invested in socially undesirable impulses." This idea aligns more with Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory of dreaming, which posits that dreams are a way for us to express repressed desires. Therefore, option B is not consistent with the activation-synthesis theory.
04

Evaluate Option C

"Dreams represent the person's attempt to fulfill unconscious wishes." This option is also aligned with Freud's psychoanalytic theory of dreaming rather than the activation-synthesis theory. So, option C is not the correct answer regarding the activation-synthesis theory of dreaming.
05

Evaluate Option D

"Dreams are an attempt to restore a neurotransmitter balance within the brain." This option implies that dreams have a specific biological function related to balancing neurotransmitters. The activation-synthesis theory states that dreams are the result of random neural signals, not an attempt to achieve a specific brain balance. Therefore, option D is not consistent with the activation-synthesis theory.
06

Choose the correct answer

Based on the analysis of each option and its alignment with the activation-synthesis theory, Option A is the correct answer: "Dreams are simply the by-product of bursts of activity in the brain."

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