The cipher method is a lay model of dream interpretation that treats the dream as a secret code, in which every event has a hidden meaning interpreted through a cipher, or key.

Cipher method

Convenient dreams are simple evocations of wish fulfillment—for instance, dreaming of drinking water when one is thirsty.

Convenient dreams

Counter-wish dreams are dreams that distort their latent wish content with manifest content that is frightful or negative. The negative content counters the positive value of the wish.

Counter-wish dreams

Dream-work

Hypermnesic dream

Hypnogogic hallucination

Hysteria

Neurosis

Oedipal/Elektra complex

Perennial dream

Preconscious

Psi-systems

Secondary elaboration

Symbolic method

Unconscious

Life & Time

Coming-of-Age Journeys

Relationships

Family

Emotions & Behavior

Memory

Humanities

Philosophy, Logic, & Ethics

Pride & Shame

Social Sciences

Psychology

Natural World

Science & Nature

Editor Picks

SuperSummary Staff Picks

Sigmund Freud

Adult

Book

Nonfiction

Study Guide

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Overview

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