Daydreaming: Exploring the Purpose and Effects

Daydreaming is a common and normal mental activity that allows us to reflect on the past and plan for the future. Dr. Julia Poerio, a psychology lecturer, defines daydreaming as task-unrelated and stimulus-independent thoughts. Typically, people spend about 30% of their time daydreaming, which is considered typical. Daydreaming is crucial for our cognitive flexibility and ability to imagine different scenarios. However, excessive daydreaming can become maladaptive, leading to conditions like maladaptive daydreaming. Taylor Dickinson, also known as Feminome on TikTok, shares her experience as a maladaptive daydreamer, explaining how her daydreams provide an escape from reality but also lead to unhealthy dependency and toxic relationships. Maladaptive daydreaming is being recognized as a behavioral addiction and may be linked to anxiety and depression. Experts like Prof. Ellie Sommer emphasize the need to understand and address maladaptive daydreaming, as many individuals suffering from it feel ashamed and struggle to cope.