Perspective: I believe what I remember, but it may not be true

Charles A. Morgan, Steven Southwick

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

A growing number of research findings have challenged the conception that memory for traumatic events is highly accurate or even indelible in nature. Research involving soldiers indicates that realistic levels of high stress decrease the accuracy of eyewitness memory. In addition, recent findings from several studies show quite clearly that memories for stressful events - including those from combat trauma - are malleable and vulnerable to alteration by exposure to misinformation. Under high stress, our brains facilitate the formation of "gist" memories that allow us to avoid future dangers but which may not contain the detail and precision demanded by the judicial system. Although mental health professionals ought to play a role in educating the courts about mental illness and trauma, it is unwise for them to become advocates for the idea that traumatic memories are indelible, factual accounts of events.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)101-103
Number of pages3
JournalNeurobiology of Learning and Memory
Volume112
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2014
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Eyewitness memory
  • False memory
  • Forensics
  • Military
  • Misinformation
  • Stress

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