Crick and Mitchison - Reorganisation theory of dreaming (mandatory)

Answer 1

This theory stated that the main function of dreams is reorganisation, in order to improve memory storage. The purpose of dreams is to store memories more efficiently, acting as a filter to clear out unnecessary information accumulated throughout the day.

Question 2

Crick and Mitchison believe that there are two main categories of memories;

Answer 2

Adaptive memories - things that are useful for us to retain and Parasitic memories - useless or harmful memories that waste resources.

Question 3

their thoughts

Answer 3

They feel that the brain benefits from reverse learning of parasitic memories and that this is the purpose of REM sleep. Reverse learning means that learning can be undone during REM sleep.

Question 4

Information consolidation

Answer 4

Crick and Mitchison suggested that sleeping and dreaming assists the mind efficiently processing, reprogramming and remembering the information of the day. This is also known as an information consolidation theory - like compressing or defragmenting a set of computer files. According to this theory, we prune useless memories during REM sleep.

Question 5

Strengths

Answer 5

It gives a clear theory about why REM sleep could be important.

By making memory more efficient, Crick and Mitchison argue that better use is made of the available space in the brain.

Sleep deprivation studies support the reorganisational theory.

Question 6

Weaknesses

Answer 6

It is based on computer models of memory, and lacks research support on human participants.

Numerous studies have shown that rather than destroying memories, sleep is beneficial to memory.

Does not explain why dreams have a narrative.