Flashbulb Memory Theory | Psychology

Flashbulb Memory Theory

Proposed by Brown and Kulik 1977.
The theory proposes that these autobiographical memories are different from everyday memories in the way that they’re highly detailed, exceptionally vivid and a snapshot of a moment, formed when a shocking event occurs that is emotional.

Modern Evidence

Amygdala, a part of the brain that plays a role in making emotional memories.

Special Mechanism Hypothesis

Proposed by Brown and Kulik.
When an event occurs a special biological mechanism is activated in the brain which creates a permanent detailed record.

Importance-Driven Model

The most prominent theory as to why flashbulb memories exist.
Emphasizes the importance of personal attachment to an emotional event.

Brown and Kulik (1977)

A study that showed that personal significance of an event interferes with the creation of flashbulb memories.

Neisser and Harsch (1992)

A study that showed flashbulb memories are prone to distortion.