Unit 22 Research Diary

Cast

Elliot Dugdale

Emmanuel Shema

Ryan Torr

Research

You find yourself missing days and hours of time daydreaming. This is known as maladaptive daydreaming (MD) — an extensive daydream that replaces human interaction with extensive fantasies that people envision in their own minds. Although it is not a medically recognized term, the concept was first coined by Eli Sómer, Ph.D., in 2002. Somer believed that the trigger for this excessive form of daydreaming might be from trauma or abuse.

Many people with MD find that their condition can cause them to be unproductive and can actually be an extreme hindrance to their everyday lives. Time is passing while they are processing these extensive dreams, and before they know it, a whole day is lost to their fantasies.

Symptoms Of MD

There are not any conclusive symptoms of MD, since it's not an official diagnosis, but in view of the research available, there are a few signs that be related to MD:

1. Daydreaming excessively in a way that is often compared to an addiction.

2. This excessive daydreaming often begins in childhood.

3. Books, movies, music, video games, and other media may be a daydreaming trigger.

4. The daydreaming itself is often detailed and elaborate, sometimes compared to a movie or novel.

5. Repetitive movements while daydreaming are common (but not always present in sufferers) — pacing, rocking, spinning, shaking something in their hand, etc.

Locations
-Ashton Sixth Form College

-Streets

-In a car

Target Audience
My target audience would be mostly people with MD, but also people who find unusual or 'different' conditions interesting. This is because people with MD May want to know if they can relate to the film and maybe gain some tips or information on how to deal with their own issues. My film will have a short clip at the end which will talk about MD and will provide information on how to further deal with their symptoms and where to look for I.e. Therapy sessions.