Repressed Memories

Abstract

A repressed memory is the memory of a traumatic incident unconsciously reserved in the mind, where it is said to unfavorably affect conscious thought, desire, and action (Carroll 1).

Many psychologists believe that unconscious repression of traumatic experiences such as sexual abuse or rape is a defense mechanism which backfires (Carroll 1). These experiences are slowly bought back to memory, sometimes taking all the way up to 40 years for vivid details. Researchers have attempted to uncover the mystery behind repression. Are these memories false memories, or are they repressed memories? Can horrifying episodes be forgotten? Does a theory of this nature stand a chance in court? These questions will be attempted to be answered and if not answered, provide one with more knowledge on the topic.

What are repressed memories? Repressed memories are actual memories that have been pushed out of consciousness because they are emotionally forewarned (Kosslyn & Rosenberg). Why does something like this take place? Researchers have attempted to uncover the mystery behind this theory. Are these memories false memories, or are they repressed memories? Can horrifying episodes be forgotten? Does a theory of this nature stand a chance in court? Researchers have attempted to answer these and many other questions that have emerged.

What really happens during repression? “Something happens that is so shocking that the mind grabs hold of the memory and pushes it underground, into some inaccessible corner of the unconscious. There it sleeps for years, or even decades, or even forever-isolated from the rest of mental life. Then, one day, it may rise up and emerge into consciousness (Loftus 518).” These experiences are slowly bought back to memory, sometimes taking all the way up to 40 years for vivid details. There have been some instances as to where memory of the incident never returns.

However, the debate is centered around the question of whether or not these memories are real or false (Sevelj 1). “If a memory is recovered that is not authentic, where would it come from? Ganaway (1989) proposed several hypotheses to explain memories of a repressed past. If not authentic, the memories could be due to fantasy, illusion or hallucination-mediated screen memories, internally derived as a defense mechanism (Loftus 524).” Some who are uncertain about the authenticity of the memories of abuse do so in part because of the severity and sincerity of the accused persons who deny the abuse (Loftus 524). Sometimes the story of how the incident happened changes every time, which leads people to believe that the person is lying. People are forced to do the impossible, choose between believing (believer) and not believing(nonbelieiver). Which one are you?

Can a traumatic experience be forgotten? “Most people do not forget traumatic experiences unless