Narrative Deference

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Philosophy of Mind

Background:

• Distributed cognition theory posits that memory and narration extend beyond the individual mind.
• Autobiographical self-narratives are increasingly understood as distributed phenomena.
• Recent research examines both benefits and detriments of distributed cognition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and define the concept of narrative deference.
• To explore the relationship between mnemonic impairment and narrative deference.
• To analyze the complex interplay of benefits and harms of narrative deference in personal relationships.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis and theoretical postulation.
• Literature review of distributed cognition and self-narrative.
• Exploration of case examples involving mnemonic impairment (trauma, illness, injury).

Main Results:

• Narrative deference is proposed as a stronger form of distributed narration.
• Mnemonic impairment, particularly regarding adverse life events, increases likelihood of narrative deference.
• The advantages of narrative deference in close relationships are intricately linked with potential harms.

Conclusions:

• Narrative deference offers a new lens for understanding self-narrative in distributed cognition.
• Understanding narrative deference is crucial for appreciating the complexities of memory, selfhood, and interpersonal relationships.
• Further research is needed to fully delineate the therapeutic and detrimental aspects of narrative deference.