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Beyond the Daydream: Celebrating 2024’s Research Milestones with a Fabulous End of the Year



Dear Colleagues and Friends of the ICMDR,


The year 2024 just ended, and we marvel at the profound strides made in understanding maladaptive daydreaming (MD). This last year has been a testament to the dedication and passion of researchers, clinicians, and advocates worldwide. From groundbreaking studies uncovering the psychological underpinnings of MD to the expansion of resources and tools, such as the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale now available in 41 languages, the progress has been nothing short of extraordinary. These achievements underscore the field's vibrancy and the shared commitment to shedding light on this enigmatic condition. Let us celebrate the collective efforts that have transformed curiosity into meaningful insights and laid a strong foundation for the future.



Published research papers



Layperson’s Abstract

Twitch, a major live video game streaming platform, attracts over 2.5 million daily viewers, yet little is known about the psychological factors influencing its use. This paper focused on the role of maladaptive daydreaming (MD) and other psychological factors in driving both healthy and problematic use of Twitch. In Study 1, a Problematic Use of Twitch Scale was developed and tested with a sample of 1,544 Twitch users (89.05% male, average age 25.36 years). The six-item scale proved reliable, identifying that about 1.3% of users may be at risk of problematic Twitch use. Study 2, involving 525 Twitch users (81.33% male, average age 26.57 years), found that problematic use of Twitch was associated with higher levels of psychological distress, while frequent use alone was not. Notably, MD significantly predicted problematic Twitch use. People who daydream excessively and feel a strong need to belong are likelier to use Twitch in unhealthy ways, suggesting that Twitch may provide some individuals with an escape or a sense of connection. Study 3 further examined Twitch’s impact on behavior, showing that close interactions with a favorite streamer influenced purchasing decisions on the platform. Overall, these findings suggest that while most Twitch users do not experience psychological harm, a subset with MD tendencies and high needs for belonging may be at greater risk for problematic use and related mental health issues. This study highlights MD as an important factor in behavioral addictions and underscores the need to explore further how excessive daydreaming and social needs contribute to problematic platform use.

 

 

Layperson’s Abstract

Living behind bars can take a heavy toll on mental health, according to new research from Pakistan's Punjab region. Scientists looked at how prisoners cope with stress and how their personality traits influence their mental wellbeing. The study, which involved over 500 male inmates across nine central jails, revealed some interesting patterns in how different coping strategies work together with personality to affect mental health. The researchers found that certain personality traits, such as emotional instability, poor impulse control and disconnection from reality, act as stepping stones between unhealthy coping mechanisms and mental health problems. They also discovered that hostile personality traits interact with both mature and anxiety-driven coping styles to influence mental health symptoms in unique ways. This helps explain why some prisoners might be more vulnerable to mental health issues than others, even when using similar coping strategies. These findings shed new light on how personality and coping mechanisms work together to influence mental health in prison settings. Understanding these connections could help prison mental health services better support inmates who are struggling to cope with life behind bars.

 


Layperson’s Abstract

People with maladaptive daydreaming (MD) often use their daydreams to escape from uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. Previous research has shown that this kind of daydreaming is closely linked to difficulties in managing emotions. People with borderline personality disorder (BPD) often struggle with intense emotions. This study looked at whether people with BPD symptoms might use maladaptive daydreaming as a way to cope with their emotions. The researchers also examined how avoiding experiences, difficulty managing emotions, and feeling disconnected from reality (dissociation) might contribute to MD. The study involved 167 adults. The researchers found that people who reported more MD also tended to have more BPD symptoms, more dissociation, more trouble managing their emotions, and were more likely to avoid difficult experiences. The findings suggest that when people try to avoid dealing with their experiences, it can lead to problems with managing emotions and to feelings of disconnection, which in turn can make MD worse. This information can help therapists develop better treatments that focus on assisting people to accept their experiences rather than escaping them through daydreaming.

 


Layperson’s Abstract

The authors acknowledge a mistake in setting up the scoring system for the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale-16 (MDS-16) in its Italian version. They originally had people rate their answers from 1 to 10. However, the correct way should have been to let people rate their answers from 0 to 100, going up in steps of 10. Someone's total maladaptive daydreaming score could be between 0 and 100. In this correction paper, the authors explain how they corrected their error and offer the correct presentation of their findings.

 


Layperson’s Abstract

This research uncovered new insights into how childhood trauma might influence maladaptive daydreaming (MD). In a study of nearly 400 people, it was found that individuals who experienced difficult childhood events—such as verbal abuse, family mental health challenges, sexual abuse, or physical neglect—were more likely to develop intense, disruptive daydreaming behaviors. These daydreams appear to function as a psychological escape mechanism, helping people mentally distance themselves from painful childhood memories. Interestingly, not all childhood experiences impact daydreaming equally—for instance, parental divorce was associated with lower rates of MD. The research suggests that mental health professionals should consider a person's childhood experiences when treating excessive daydreaming. By understanding the roots of these complex mental patterns, therapists might develop more targeted and compassionate treatment approaches. This study provides important evidence that childhood experiences can profoundly shape our mental coping strategies, highlighting the long-lasting impact of early life trauma.

 


Layperson’s Abstract

Researchers surveyed 485 members of an online maladaptive daydreaming (MD) community and found some concerning patterns. In total, 91% of participants qualified as maladaptive daydreamers, with young women making up the majority. These weren't just casual daydreamers – their fantasies were intense enough to interfere with their daily lives. Over 60% of maladaptive daydreamers reported that their grades had suffered. Even more worryingly, they were significantly more likely to have suicidal thoughts compared to normative daydreamers, with about one-third being at high risk for suicidal behavior. This study shows that MD can be a serious mental health concern and deserves more attention. The researchers emphasize the need for proper treatment and counseling services for people struggling with this condition, and call for MD to be officially recognized as a mental health disorder.

 


Layperson’s Abstract

This study examined how different dreaming patterns might relate to maladaptive daydreaming (MD). The researchers studied 315 young adults and identified three distinct dreaming patterns: "sweet dreaming" (21.9% of participants), "systematic dreaming" (47.7%), and "over-dreaming" (30.4%). Both the systematic dreaming and over-dreaming groups showed stronger links to MD and had more difficulty regulating their emotions compared with the sweet dreamers. They also reported poorer sleep quality. These findings suggest that people who experience more intense dreaming patterns, whether asleep or awake, might be using these vivid mental experiences to process or control their emotions – though not always successfully. This research adds to our understanding of how our minds handle emotional experiences across different states of consciousness, from nighttime dreams to daytime fantasies. The study points to the possibility that excessive dreaming and daydreaming might be different expressions of the same underlying psychological mechanism, opening new avenues for understanding and potentially treating emotional regulation difficulties.

 


Measures


The 16-item Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale (MDS-16) has been translated into Indonesian, potentially benefitting the estimated four million Indonesians living with maladaptive daydreaming. In total, the scale is now available in 41 different languages.

 


Theses and Dissertations


 

Layperson’s Abstract

Since maladaptive daydreaming (MD) was first identified in 2002, researchers have been trying to understand this condition better. However, there has been little research on this topic in Indonesia. This study aimed to develop a reliable way to measure MD among Indonesian university students. The researchers tested a 16-item questionnaire on 250 students. They wanted to ensure the questionnaire was accurate, easy to understand, and could effectively identify people struggling with MD. The results showed that the questionnaire is scientifically sound and can be trusted. The study found that people who struggle with MD tend to experience higher levels of anxiety and depression and have a greater tendency to get lost in fantasy worlds. A cut-off score of 49% indicates potential MD. The researchers hope to help identify and support individuals needing help managing their daydreams. This research is important in understanding and addressing a condition that can significantly impact people's lives, especially in the Indonesian context.

 


Layperson’s Abstract

This research looked at two main aspects of maladaptive daydreaming (MD). First, the researcher reviewed all existing studies about how MD affects people's relationships. She found that people with MD often struggle with:

  • Difficult relationships in their early life

  • Problems forming close bonds with others

  • Social challenges

  • A gap between their rich fantasy life and real-world relationships

  • Feelings of shame about their daydreaming

Second, she interviewed people with MD to understand their experiences of telling others about their daydreaming. She found that:

  • Most people kept their daydreaming secret

  • They worried about being caught or feeling embarrassed

  • When they did tell others, it was a complex emotional journey

  • They deeply wished others could understand their experience

  • Many felt that both therapists and loved ones dismissed or doubted them when they opened up

This research suggests we need better awareness and understanding of MD, especially among mental health professionals.

 


Documentary


The Dutch film "In My Head Everything is Better" (In mijn hoofd is alles leuker) was aired on December 5 on Netherlands public TV station NPO. The documentary (with the English title “My dark beautiful world”) explores the fascinating yet challenging world of maladaptive daydreaming (MD). Director Thomas Willem Renckens' documentary follows three individuals - Amber, Sian, and Dušan - as they navigate between their richly constructed inner worlds and reality. The film delves into the compelling question: if you can be exactly who you want to be in your daydreams, why return to real life? Through intimate interviews and day-to-day footage, the documentary uncovers the underlying causes driving these individuals to retreat into fantasy, while documenting their struggles to embrace reality. While exact prevalence rates remain unknown, MD has gained increasing recognition, with thousands connecting through social media platforms. The film represents years of research into this under-explored psychological phenomenon, offering unprecedented insight into the lives of those who live in the shadows of their own imagination. The documentary received wide print media and radio coverage in the Netherlands. In the photo, director Thomas Renckens and one of the film’s protagonists are interviewed on Dutch radio.

 


Maladaptive Daydreaming on the Web


New maladaptive daydreaming website (in French): www.reveriecompulsive.fr 


Rêverie Compulsive is a new French website dedicated to Maladaptive Daydreaming (MD). The webmasters aim to provide general information, testimonies and resources on MD to the French public. The site has useful links to French-language MD support groups on both Discord and Reddit, as well as articles explaining what MD is and giving suggestions on how to manage it.

 


Layperson’s Abstract

In a groundbreaking study of 301 Vietnamese university students, researchers discovered how ghosting and stress can trigger maladaptive psychological responses. Individuals experiencing frequent ghosting and high stress were more likely to engage in immersive daydreaming and develop vulnerable narcissism. The study highlights mindfulness as a potential protective factor, suggesting that being present and observant can help interrupt negative emotional cycles triggered by sudden communication breakdowns. While not definitive, the research offers insight into how modern digital interactions can profoundly impact psychological well-being.

 

 

 

Layperson’s Abstract

A fascinating new study from Poland has uncovered what makes neurodivergent individuals particularly prone to excessive daydreaming. Researchers looked at three groups of people: those with ADHD, autism, or both conditions. They discovered four key factors that drive maladaptive daydreaming (MD). These factors are: trouble managing emotions, internalized negative self-perceptions, using fantasy to escape reality, and self-esteem issues. The findings were eye-opening: between 37% and 46% of participants across all groups experienced MD, but the reasons varied. For people with autism, emotional challenges and feelings of social alienation were the biggest triggers. Those with ADHD struggled more with accepting their emotional responses. The people with both conditions faced the highest levels of all these challenges. "Think of it as an escape hatch," explains lead researcher Anna Pyszkowska. "When reality feels overwhelming - especially for people who often face stigma and discrimination - retreating into an imaginary world can feel like a safe haven." While the study opens new doors to understanding this relatively unexplored phenomenon, it also raises an important point: what starts as a coping mechanism might need professional attention if it begins taking over someone's life.

 

Afterword: Looking Ahead to a Transformative 2025


As we bid farewell to 2024, we carry forward a renewed sense of hope and purpose. The discoveries of this past year inspire us to dream bigger in 2025 - a year where awareness of maladaptive daydreaming (MD) will continue to grow, and new therapeutic approaches will emerge to address its challenges. Our vision includes expanding global collaboration, deepening our understanding of the intersection between MD and other psychological phenomena, and strengthening the bridges between science and society. Together, let us step into 2025 with determination to make even greater strides in supporting those affected by MD, proving that innovation and compassion can light the way forward.



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