A phenomenological thematic analysis of dreams after a near-death experience : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Psychology at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand

Abstract

Dreams are subjective conscious states influenced by waking emotional events. For some people on the brink of death, a subjective near-death experience (NDE) is activated potentially giving a glimpse into disembodied and altered consciousness. Interviews with 10 participants who had NDEs were conducted to record phenomenological lived experiences of dreaming. Thematic analysis was utilised to arrange reports into four global themes: ‘Dreams are Teachers’ revealed how NDEs altered attitudes and beliefs about the value of information in dreams which had practical implications for solving waking problems, creativity, and exploring who one is and why they are here. ‘Suspended Dream Time’ draws on how dreams contain memories of past lives and provide insight into the future. The subjective nature of an NDE also impacts interactions within dreams. ‘The Conscious States of Dreaming’ illustrates how participants experienced their bodies and minds when connecting with dream content and the functions this served. The subjective consciousness of an NDE also influenced notions of reality which found expression in dreams. ‘Dreams are More Memorable’ captured how dreams became more vivid and emotional since returning from the threshold of death. These are then compared with relevant findings from other studies.