Trauma & Memory: Fragmentation and Repression

These flashcards cover key concepts and findings related to trauma and memory, helping to reinforce understanding of the impacts of trauma on memory processes.

What factors influence trauma memory encoding and retrieval?

Age, stress, and emotional intensity of the event.

What is suggestibility in the context of memory?

The tendency to provide incorrect details when asked about an event, especially seen in younger children.

What is a false memory?

A memory of an event that never occurred.

How do younger maltreated children compare to older children in recalling past events?

Younger maltreated children are more likely to provide incorrect details to abuse-related questions.

What brain area is disrupted in individuals with PTSD affecting retrieval?

Boca’s area.

What is the role of the hippocampus in memory?

It is involved in moving new experiences into long-term episodic memory.

What challenges exist in trauma memory research?

Intensified perceptual memory versus situational memory and integration of new experiences.

What is one consequence of acute stress on memory encoding?

It blocks a deep level of encoding.

What type of memories do trauma memories often defy?

They do not follow a narrative structure with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

What cognitive impairments are common in individuals with PTSD?

Deficits in working memory, executive functioning, and emotional regulation.

What can increase vulnerability to developing PTSD after trauma?

Pre-existing memory and learning deficits.

Why are ethical considerations important in trauma memory research?

Due to subjectivity of memory and variability in trauma experiences.