Theories of Dreaming and Psychoactive Drugs

Theories of why people dream

Includes wish fulfillment, information processing, cognitive development, and the activation-synthesis model.

Wish fulfillment

A theory that dreams represent unfulfilled desires.

Information processing

A theory that dreams help in filing memories.

Cognitive development

A theory that dreams reflect the cognitive development of the dreamer.

Activation-synthesis model

A theory that dreams are the brain's attempt to make sense of neural activity.

Psychoactive drugs

Substances that alter perception, mood, or consciousness.

Depressants

Types of psychoactive drugs that slow neural activity.

Stimulants

Types of psychoactive drugs that increase neural activity.

Hallucinogens

Types of psychoactive drugs that distort perceptions.

Barbiturates

A type of depressant that induces calm and sleep.

Benzodiazepines

A type of depressant that includes drugs like Valium and Rohypnol.

Narcotics

Opioids and opiates that bind at endorphin sites to reduce pain.

Opioid epidemic

A crisis related to prescription drug abuse.

Alcohol

A depressant that slows cognitive processing and reduces self-control.

Cocaine

A stimulant that blocks reuptake of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.

Methamphetamine

A stimulant that causes extended release of dopamine.

Caffeine

A stimulant that boosts glutamate impact and reduces GABA impact.

Nicotine

A stimulant that boosts epinephrine and norepinephrine.

LSD

A hallucinogen that affects serotonin levels.

Marijuana (THC)

Acts as a stimulant, depressant, and hallucinogen.

Ecstasy (MDMA, Molly)

A drug that acts as both a stimulant and a hallucinogen.

Addiction

A condition characterized by compulsive drug seeking.

Physical dependence

A condition where the body adapts to a drug, leading to withdrawal symptoms.

Psychological dependence

A condition where a person feels a strong desire to use a drug.

Hypnosis

A state of focused attention that can be used for therapy.

Divided consciousness

A theory explaining how hypnosis works by splitting awareness.

Hidden observer

A theory that suggests a part of the mind remains aware during hypnosis.