Author: Alaina N. Raymer
Institution: Saint Leo University
Date: January 2011
Abstract
Dream Recall Frequency (DRF) has been used in many studies throughout psychology. Studies have shown correlations between moods and DRF (Schredl, M. et al. 2009; Tart, C. T. 1962); however, few correlations have been made regarding the increase of DRF by electronic media, such as video games. In this experiment participants were given questionnaires and dream journals to track their abilities to recall nocturnal dreams. Three test groups were utilized in this study: a control group, a Reflection-Intention (RI) group, and a RI/Video Gameplay group. Results of this study show an overall decrease in DRF but did not provide any significant results; nor have the results shown any correlation between video games and DRF. Of particular interest are the results regarding multiple dream recall, referred to as stream recall. While the control group showed a significant decrease in stream recall, the RIO and VG/RI groups show a slight increase. All results could be caused by chance or outlying variables not taken into consideration. Self-selection bias, small selection of participants, and time of year could all be factors in the overall decrease of DRF. Additional studies are recommended to verify results.