Dreams Unlock Creative Problem-Solving in Groundbreaking Sleep Study
A new study from Northwestern Mutual shows that dreams can help people solve problems more creatively. Researchers used sounds during sleep to influence participants' dreams and found a clear link between dreaming and puzzle-solving success. The findings suggest that dreams may play a bigger role in mental health processes than previously thought.
The team worked with a group of volunteers who attempted puzzles before sleeping. During the REM phase, scientists played sounds linked to the unsolved puzzles—a method called targeted memory reactivation. This technique triggered dreams about the puzzles in 75% of participants.
Some volunteers even used prearranged signals to show they were engaging with the puzzles while dreaming. Those who dreamed about the puzzles solved them at a much higher rate (42%) compared to those who didn't (17%). In a smaller group of twelve, dreams referencing the sound-activated puzzles led to an even greater success rate (40% vs. 20%).
This research builds on earlier work, including a 2018 study on trauma reactivation. Since then, at least twelve follow-up projects have explored similar methods at universities like Cambridge, Stanford, and Tokyo. Many focus on PTSD therapy and memory reconsolidation.
The Northwestern Mutual team now plans to investigate other possible functions of dreams, such as emotional regulation and broader learning processes.
The results highlight how dreams could aid problem-solving and creativity. By showing a direct connection between dreaming and cognitive performance, the study encourages further research into sleep's role in mental health. The researchers aim to promote better understanding of dreams as a tool for well-being.
