Understanding Dreams

Applied Dream Analysis: A Jungian Approach is an important contribution to present day psychotherapy and a most valuable aid to practitioners of all theoretical persuasions. The book offers, for the first time, a systematic and comprehensive presentation of Jung's theory of dream interpretation. The theory, one of the most highly developed, has been rather neglected in the past because it was not available in a single volume such as the present, by Dr. Mattoon. Jung's method of dream
interpretation is not dependent upon any particular view of personality and much of his theory has been adopted piece-meal by other dream theorists. His concepts are thoughtfully interpreted and reconciliations of apparent contradictions accomplished to make the theory understandable not only to the profession but also to a great variety of other readers interested in dream interpretation.

Applied Dream Analysis is eminently readable; where Jung's manner of expression may not be readily understandable, the author provides clear explanations. In addition, where there were gaps in Jung's theory, she offers supplementary hypotheses that are consonant with the balance. One of the significantly valuable features is the author's use of dreams from Jung's and her own practice to illustrate different parts of the theory; one chapter illustrates the step-by-step application of the entire theory to a dream. In preparation for this book, the author examined all of Jung's works, including many hitherto unpublished, reviewing and analyzing 972 separate statements on dream interpretation. In words of the introducer, "This is a book that is long overdue.. . invaluable insights into dreams and their uses and meanings are at last available to the profession..." Thus, Freudian and all other therapists will find Dr. Mattoon's work of considerable value for their analytical practice and clinical research.

Mary Ann Mattoon received her Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Minnesota. A native of Nebraska, she is a practicing analyst in Minneapolis and teaches at the University of Minnesota. A member of the APA and IAAP, she has lectured extensively in the United States and Switzerland on comparative theories of dream interpretation. Her publications include papers on analytical psychology and individuation.