Repressed Memory

This paper will provide information in such a way that the reader will be able to not only see that repressed memories exist and are real, but also that not all repressed memories are accurate. In order to provide fairness both sides of “coin” concerning repressed memories verse false memories will be discussed. The paper explains main points of repressed memories along with several possible ways in which to retrieve and deal with repressed memories. One should always remember that repressed memories are painful and if not dealt with will have an impact on their lives and those around them. However once a memory has been retrieved the implication of others is going to occur. This is where issues of how valid the memory is, how the memory was discovered, and also the legal aspects of the ordeal will have to be explored. The most important part of dealing with repressed memories is just that, working through the memory and not allowing them to control and dictate the person’s life.

Memory is a fascinating wonder of the brain. How we process memories and share at a later date is one way we continue to pass on information to upcoming generations. However some memories are so painful and distressful a person will repress the memory. The concept of “repressed memory,” known by the diagnostic term dissociative amnesia, has long fueled controversy in psychiatry (Pettus, 2008) Repression is one of the most haunting concepts in psychology (Loftus, 1993). Something shocking happens, and the mind pushes it into some inaccessible corner of the unconscious (Loftus, 1993).

The broad field of psychology along with the specific area of cognitive psychology believes there are many reasons that might cause a person to recall a repressed memory later in life. During therapy is one such way to bring forth a repressed memory; however with the media that everyone is exposed too, a person has access to books that are written to assist the person with repressed memories. Also due to repressed memories often implicating others of harm to the person, validity of the memory or memories is important. Questions need to be answered concerning if the memory is truly real or if it is a false memory due to the legal aspects that might become involved relating to the memories.

Repressed memories generally stem from traumatic events that occur during childhood. When we think of repressed memories we often think the person has experienced sexual and/or physical abuse. While this might be the case there are other reasons why someone might repress a memory. Feelings of guilt and shame can cause repression along with being part of or witnessing a traumatic event such murder, rape, natural disasters, and many other events that cause the person to go into shock. Understanding that memory is not a digital recording that provides for a totally accurate replay (Middleton, Cromer, & Freyd, 2005) is often overlooked in the beginning of remembering a repressed memory and also that many different triggers are involved in the recovery of repressed memories.