Retracted memories in the general population: are there differences between eastern and western countries?

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Cognitive Science
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Memory retraction, the process of withdrawing previously recalled memories, is a complex cognitive phenomenon.
• Understanding the prevalence and characteristics of memory retraction across diverse cultural contexts is crucial for a comprehensive view of human memory.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of memory retraction experiences in the general population.
• To explore the details, reasons, and outcomes associated with memory retraction.
• To compare these experiences between participants from China and other countries, primarily the United States.

Main Methods:

• Two cross-cultural studies were conducted involving participants from China and other countries.
• Data collection focused on identifying memory retraction experiences, reasons for retraction, and subsequent outcomes.

Main Results:

• Memory retraction experiences were found to be common, with a prevalence of 50.58% in Chinese participants and 35% in participants from other countries.
• Retracted memories predominantly involved positive events, and reasons for retraction included social feedback and event plausibility.
• Belief scores significantly decreased post-retraction, with some individuals forming non-believed memories.

Conclusions:

• Memory retraction is a prevalent phenomenon across different cultures.
• The process can lead to a reduction in belief in the memory and potentially the formation of non-believed memories.
• Participants often reported psychological benefits after retracting memories, suggesting a potential therapeutic aspect.