Fall 2003
Donadrian L. Rice, Ph.D.
Office: 123 Melson Hall
Phone: 770.836.06510
email: drice@westga.edu
See Secretary for Appointments

Texts:
Our Dreaming Mind by Robert L. Van De Castle, Ballantine Books, NY.
Dreaming Souls by Owen Flanagan, Oxford Books
Healing Dreams by Marc Barasch, Penguin Putman Books
 
 
 

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course explores the Psychological and Physiological aspects of dreaming and sleep. While the course examines classical and contemporary theories and research findings on dreaming, emphasis is placed on how dreams can help you understand yourself and others, and how to analyze and synthesize dream theories in a meaningful psychological context. This course is designed to facilitate an understanding of the influences of dream-life on waking life. Classical theories (e.g., Freudian, Jungian, Gestalt) will be covered, and also contemporary physiological, phenomenological, transpersonal, cross-cultural and cognitive theories. Emphasis is placed on personal understanding of one’s dreams as they relate to everyday life.

The interpretation of dreams for oneself and in therapeutic settings is examined through a variety of in-class activities including lectures, discussions and small group exercises. Occasionally, videos and guest lectures are used to supplement the learning experience.
 

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Students will be able to:

1. Describe the psychological and physiological processes occurring during sleep and dreaming.

2. Compare and contrast the classical and contemporary theories on dreaming.

3.   Demonstrate an understanding of how dreams influence one’s waking life.

4. Demonstrate an understanding of the use of symbolism in dreams.

5. Recognize the role cultural factors play in understanding dreams.

6. Recognize and articulate an understanding of the experiences of others through an interpretation their dreams. Students meet this objective by writing about their dreams and the dreams of others. These writing sessions involve intense applications of content analysis and qualitative research methods to understanding one’s own dreams and the dreams of others.

7. Analyze and discuss current research in the field
 

REQUIREMENTS

Students are expected to:
a) keep a dream journal
b) read all assignments and participate in class activities
c) participate in assigned dream group
d) Research Paper
e) successfully complete midterm
f) Lead Dream Group
 

EVALUATION

Your final grade for the course will be determined as follows:

1) class attendance- and important aspect of this class is participation in class exercises that complement the lectures and discussions.         Therefore, I consider your presence vital. As a graduate student, you will be in charge of a dream group. (25% of grade)
2) Mid-term exam covering reading and lecture material   (25% of grade) October 9
3) Final Research Paper (50% of grade) Meet with Professor to discuss topic. Due Decemeber 8
 
 

The above schedule is subject to change at the discretion of the Professor