Repressed Memories
Not what you're looking for?
When we repress memories, are they really forgotten or just waiting to be brought back to the surface with the right external cue?
Purchase this Solution
Solution Summary
When we repress memories, this solution discusses if they are really forgotten or just waiting to be brought back to the surface with the right external cue. References are provided.
Solution Preview
Let's take a closer look.
RESPONSE:
1. When we repress memories, are they really forgotten or just waiting to be brought back to the surface with the right external cue?
By definition, repressed memories are repressed NOT forgotten.
There is a general consensus amongst psychologists that it is quite common to consciously and/or unconsciously (depending on the theorist) repress unpleasant experiences, even sexual abuse, and to then spontaneously remember such events later, and sometimes long after the event. Most of the controversy in this area is around recovered 'repressed' memories during repressed memory therapy (RMT). Critics of RMT assert that many therapists are not helping patients recover repressed memories, but are instead suggesting and planting false memories of trauma, such as sexual abuse, alien abduction, or satanic rituals.
However, it is well documented that people will remember a memory that has been repressed, and according to some, like Freud, ...
Purchase this Solution
Free BrainMass Quizzes
Sigmund Freud
How much do you know about Sigmund Freud's theories? Find out with this quiz!
Abnormal Psychology
This quiz will explore the faucets of abnormal psychology, from the question of what is abnormal, to the intricacies of DSM diagnosable disorders.
Childhood Disorders (Axis 1)
This quiz is designed to test one's knowledge on childhood Principle Disorders found in the DSM-IV (1994). This is a good quiz for those who wish to pursue a career in child assessment or child development. Good luck.
Psychoanalysis and Sigmund Freud
This quiz explores the personality theory of psychoanalysis, in particular reference to how Freud conceptualized of this theory.
Brain and behaviour
Reviews areas of the brain involved in specific behaviours. This information is important for introductory psychology courses.