Discussion Question: Do You Believe In Repressed Memory

Discussion Question Repressed Memorydo You Believe In Repressed Memo

Discussion Question: Repressed Memory Do you believe in "repressed memory"? Why or why not? What are the controversies that surround this issue? Discuss and provide examples to support your answer. Here is some more information about Elizabeth Loftus. Could this information be used against actual victims of trauma? By Thursday, 24, 2014, respond to the discussion question.

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Repressed memory is a psychological concept referring to the unconscious blocking or forgetting of traumatic events to protect the individual from psychological distress. The debate surrounding repressed memories centers on their existence, authenticity, and implications for therapy and justice, making it a contentious issue within psychology and legal communities.

Many psychologists and researchers remain skeptical about the existence of repressed memories as objectively verifiable phenomena. Critics argue that the idea of repressed memories is often rooted in suggestive therapeutic techniques that can inadvertently create false memories. Elizabeth Loftus, a prominent cognitive psychologist, has extensively studied the malleability of human memory. Her research demonstrates that memories can be influenced, distorted, or even fabricated through suggestion and outside influence, raising concerns about the reliability of recovered repressed memories (Loftus, 2005).

Supporters of repressed memory theory argue that individuals genuinely forget traumatic events as a defense mechanism, citing cases where recovered memories have led to the prosecution of perpetrators and vindication of victims. For instance, some survivors of childhood abuse have reported repressed memories that only emerged years later through therapy or hypnosis, enabling them to confront and heal from their trauma.

However, the controversy deepens with the potential for false memories. Therapists using techniques such as guided imagery, hypnotic regression, or suggestive questioning can inadvertently implant false memories. Loftus's experiments, including the famous Lost in the Mall study, illustrate how easily false memories can be created (Loftus & Pickrell, 1995). This raises ethical concerns, as wrongful accusations based on false memories can devastate innocent lives and undermine trust in therapeutic practices.

In the context of legal proceedings, the reliability of repressed memories becomes critically important. Courts have struggled with whether to accept recovered memories as credible evidence, given their susceptibility to distortion. Numerous cases have highlighted the risks of convicting individuals based on memories that may have been shaped by suggestive therapy or external influences.

Furthermore, the use of techniques to recover repressed memories has been criticized for potentially retraumatizing victims or leading to false accusations. Conversely, dismissing genuine repressed memories may deny victims justice and healing. Balancing these concerns involves careful assessment, skepticism, and reliance on corroborative evidence rather than solely on recovered memories.

Given the current understanding of human memory's fallibility, skepticism about repressed memories is justified. While some genuine cases may exist, the potential for false memories created through suggestive techniques poses significant ethical and legal challenges. Clinicians and legal professionals must exercise caution, ensuring that methods employed do not compromise the integrity of memory or justice (McNally, 2012).

In conclusion, belief in repressed memory is a complex matter subject to scientific debate. Although traumatic memories can be profoundly impactful, the mechanisms of memory formation and recovery are susceptible to distortion. Recognizing the limitations of memory and the dangers of suggestive therapeutic practices is crucial for ethically and effectively addressing trauma and its recollection.

References

• Loftus, E. F. (2005). The malleable mind: The power of suggestion, false memories, and memory distortion. Scientific American, 292(6), 80-89.
• Loftus, E. F., & Pickrell, J. E. (1995). The formation of false memories. Psychiatric Annals, 25(12), 720-725.
• McNally, R. J. (2012). Why we believe in repressed memories: A review of recent research. Clinical Psychology Review, 32(4), 202-210.
• Freyd, J. J. (1996). Betrayal Trauma: The logic of forgetting child abuse. Harvard University Press.
• Geraerts, E., et al. (2007). Recovered memories of trauma: Theories and controversies. Journal of Trauma & Dissociation, 8(3), 329-346.
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• Wells, G. L., & Bradfield, A. L. (1998). Eyewitness identification: Scientific research and best practices. Psychology, Public Policy, and Law, 4(3), 185-210.
• Schacter, D. L. (1999). The seven sins of memory: Insights from psychology and cognitive neuroscience. American Psychologist, 54(3), 182-203.