Publication Date

Spring 5-4-2026

Document Type

Student Project

First Advisor

Xia, Michelle

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Department

Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science

Abstract

Dreams are often viewed as personal experiences, but they may also reflect cultural influences. This project investigates whether dream content varies across cultures by analyzing written dream reports from American, Japanese, and Peruvian college students using data from DreamBank.net. The study applies text analysis techniques to identify common themes and compares language patterns, including the use of ‘I’ and 'We,' to examine differences in self-focus. Statistical methods for count data are used to evaluate these patterns, along with resampling to address differences in sample size. Preliminary findings suggest that both dream themes and language use may vary by cultural background. These results highlight how data analysis can uncover broader patterns in human behavior and suggest that cultural influences may extend into how dreams are experienced and described.

Suggested Citation

Kuderski, Michal, "Do Dreams Reflect Our Culture? A Statistical Analysis on Dream Narratives" (2026). Honors Capstones.[https://huskiecommons.lib.niu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2627&context=studentengagement-honorscapstones]

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