What science tells us about false and repressed memories
Date
2020
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Publisher
Memory
Abstract
What does science tell us about memory phenomena such as false and repressed memories? This
issue is highly pressing as incorrect knowledge about these memory phenomena might
contribute to egregious effects in the courtroom such as false accusations of abuse. In the current
article, we provide a succinct review of the scientific nature of false and repressed memories. We
demonstrate that research has shown that about 30% of tested subjects formed false memories
of autobiographical experiences. Furthermore, this empirical work has also revealed that such
false memories can even be implanted for negative events and events that allegedly occurred
repeatedly. Concerning the controversial topic of repressed memories, we show that plausible
alternative explanations exist for why people claim to have forgotten traumatic experiences;
explanations that do not require special memory mechanisms such as the unconscious blockage
of traumatic memories. Finally, we demonstrate that people continue to believe that unconscious
repression of traumatic incidents can exist. Disseminating scientifically articulated knowledge on
the functioning of memory to contexts such as the courtroom is necessary as to prevent the
occurrence of false accusations and miscarriages of justice.
Description
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Article
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Keywords
research, false memories, abuse, International Resources, United Kingdom, repression, trauma
Citation
Otgaar, H., Howe, M. L., & Patihis, L. (2020). What Science Tells Us About False and Repressed Memories. Memory.