R Pallmer | PubMed Health

PubMed1998

[Sex specific differences of nightmares in students].

In regard of the literature reporting gender differences in dream life of adults and children the present study investigated anxiety dreams in a sample of 624 school-aged children (10 to 16 years). Girls reported a heightened frequency of anxiety dreams, especially after the age of 14 years. Gender differences in dream content were found, too. Boys more often dreamt of monsters and big animals whereas girls' dreams were dominated by humans and small animals as aggressors. Overall the findings support the hypothesis that gender specific socialization is reflected in dreams. Further research may concentrate on topics such as the relationship between anxiety dream frequency and problem-solving skills or the treatment of nightmares with imagery rehearsal.

Adolescent↗

PubMed1997

[Nightmares in children].

Childhood nightmares are till today a very common phenomenon. The highest prevalence seems to be at about age six, decreasing strongly with age and no gender-specific differences in prevalence rates can be pinpointed for sure. The most frequently occurring nightmare themes are "Being chased", followed by dreams of "Falling" and those concerning, "Loss of close persons". As reasons for such dreams such factors as genetic influence, trait anxiety, traumatic experiences have been assumed, whereas a more comprehensive explanation model-which would take developmental issues into consideration-unfortunately does not yet exist. Numerous case studies have confirmed that childhood nightmares are easily treatable, especially where such children are encouraged to confront and cope with their anxiety. Further research such as longitudinal studies that would examine dream contents and children's waking-life experiences would be useful for a better overall understanding of the nightmare phenomenon and the causes behind their occurrence. In addition, it seems to be useful to inform parents, child caretakers, teachers and children about the simple methods in dealing with nightmares.

Adaptation, Psychological↗