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Recent versus remote: flashbulb memory for 9/11 and self-selected events from the reminiscence bump
Jenny Y Denver1, Sean M Lane, Katie E Cherry
1Departmeny of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge 70803-5501, USA.
International Journal of Aging & Human Development
|July 24, 2010
Summary
Older adults recall life events from their reminiscence bump. Flashbulb memory recall shows age-related differences for recent events but remains stable for remote events in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Human Lifespan Development
Background:
- Flashbulb memories are vivid recollections of significant public events.
- Memory recall patterns can change across the human lifespan.
- The reminiscence bump describes enhanced memory recall for events from adolescence and early adulthood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate age-related differences in flashbulb memory formation and recall.
- To examine the influence of the reminiscence bump on memory recall in older adults.
- To assess the stability of remote flashbulb memories over time.
Main Methods:
- Two studies compared memory recall in younger and older adults.
- Participants recalled personal flashbulb memories and the 9/11 attacks.
- Memory characteristics were analyzed for content, detail, and classification as flashbulb memories.
Main Results:
- Older adults preferentially recalled events from the reminiscence bump.
- Older adults' recall of the recent 9/11 event was less likely to be classified as flashbulb memory compared to younger adults.
- When analyzed holistically, age-related declines in memory recall for 9/11 diminished, and remote flashbulb memories were detailed and stable in older adults.
Conclusions:
- Flashbulb memory recall is influenced by age and the temporal proximity of the event.
- Remote flashbulb memories demonstrate remarkable stability in older adulthood.
- Findings challenge some assumptions about memory decline in late adulthood.
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