Group Dreams Revisited

Abstract

Dream interpretation presents the group analyst with a theoretical as well as a practical (therapeutic) challenge. The classical Freudian interpretation that the manifest content disguises the latent content through symbolization, condensation and displacement, comprehended within a drive-discharge theoretical model, cannot be properly applied in groups since the very activity necessary for such an interpretation contradicts the role requirements of the group analyst. Emphasis on a technically complete and `correct' understanding of dreams tends to reinforce a dependency on the group conductor. This paper describes a study based upon investigation of all dreams reported in one of the author's own group-analytic groups over a period of four years. The quantitative data are illustrated by a case report from a period of the group that was particularly rich in group dreams.