While researching the reasons for the forgetting of memories, I came across 4 main causes.
Today I will only reveal the first reason and will spread the rest over the next couple of entries.
The first reason and also main reason for forgetting memories is retrieval failure.
Within this retrieval failure there is a theory called the "decay theory".
This theory states that a memory trace is created every time a new theory is formed. The decay theory suggests that over time these memory traces begin to fade and will sooner or later disappear.
So basically if information is not rehearsed or retrieved it will eventually be lost.
In order to remember these memories and not cause retrieval failure would be to think or recall the memory quite often. Especially if it has a significant meaning to you and you would like to be able to remember it as you age or grow older.
This theory also suggests short term memory can only hold information for between 15 and 30 seconds unless it is rehearsed. After this time the memory fades away.
So for review:
A memory must be rehearsed for recalled many times for it to not to be forgotten or "lost deep in ones brain".
There are also those memories you wish to never remember again. But those go through the same traces as ones you wish to cherish. Is it possible that the undesirable memories are rehearsed and remembered much more than desirable ones?
ReplyDeleteFor those 'lost' memories, were do they go? Is there a specific place in our brain where they are stored?
ReplyDeleteThis is super interesting! Like Factual Faith said, is there a reason people suffer through things like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?
ReplyDeleteVery interesting. You guys bring up good points. I wonder if your emotions play into whether or not memories are rehearsed and remembered? I know I can vividly remember times when I was angry more than times when I felt blissfulness or happiness.
ReplyDeleteYes ma'am. Emotions are very active in our memories. You are more likely to remember moments when you were angry or upset because of the response your body gives off when your memories play out. So it is easier to remember memories of when you were upset/angry because your heart rate may have sped up and your eyes get red and this leaves a mark in your memory making this negative memory easier to retrieve.
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