High-Level Control in Lucid Dreams

Lucid dreamers use five categories of strategies to control dreams and produce impossible outcomes: verbal commands, manipulating dream objects or the environment, using the dream body, managing emotions, and other methods. 35 specific strategies were identified from 107 adults who lucid dream at least once a year. Some strategies are used during the dream, while three are applied while awake. These findings may inform lucid dream therapy for chronic nightmares.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The objective of the present study is to explore lucid dream control strategies (LDCSs) facilitating the production of outcomes that are impossible in the real world. Participants are 107 adults who experienced at least one lucid dream per year. They completed an online survey including an open question on LDCSs. Responses were analyzed using a content analysis method with a consensus approach. The results revealed five categories of LDCSs used within the lucid dreams: verbal strategies, strategies based on the use of the dream’s objects or environment, strategies based on the use of the oneiric body, strategies based on the management of emotions, and other strategies. Within these categories, 35 LDCSs were identified. These were used individually or in combination. Three additional LDCSs were used in waking. In conclusion, several LDCSs that were identified could be tested in the context of the lucid dream therapy for chronic nightmares.