Toward a role for dreams and images in a spiritual emergence process: a case study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Lukoff¹ advanced religious/spiritual problems as conditions that may be the focus of therapy. One such problem/condition has been termed spiritual emergence². OBJECTIVES: This case study explored the role of dreams and images in spiritual emergence processes. METHODS: Methodology involved a single case study and a literature review. Sources of data included six cases, reduced to three that exemplified contemporary experiences of spiritual emergence and/or spiritual emergency, and further limited to a single case due to space constraints. Similarities and differences between the case and literature were used in interpreting the role of dreams and dream-like experiences in spiritual emergence processes. Data spanned written, semi-structured interviews, published literature, historical documents, biographical narratives, and content analysis. Analysis included thematic, conceptual, and descriptive methods. Comparison of the case with findings from the literature review helped identify and validate various roles of dreams and images. RESULTS: A primary role of dreams and images in spiritual emergence seems to be to act as signs, with secondary roles as providing direction, or at least information. DISCUSSION: Implications of the findings are supportably applicable to spiritually emerging populations and to therapy where dream work is used.