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The Activation-Synthesis Theory

The Activation-Synthesis Theory

Flow diagram showing the pons sending random neural firing to the cerebral cortex, where stored memories are used to construct a dream experience

Hobson and McCarley (1977) proposed activation-synthesis theory to explain dreaming. It states that random neural activity during REM sleep is interpreted by the cerebral cortex as a meaningful experience.

6.2.5 Activation Synthesis: pons, cortex and synthesis; criticisms Lesson

  1. GCSE
  2. /Psychology
  3. /6.2.5 Activation Synthesis: pons, cortex and synthesis; criticisms

Step-by-step lessons on OCR GCSE Psychology 6.2.5 Activation Synthesis: pons, cortex and synthesis; criticisms. Each one builds up to exam-style questions. Start with the more concrete topics like memory and development before tackling evaluation-heavy topics like psychological problems and criminal psychology.

Lessons