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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
15:57
Brain Imaging Investigation of the Memory-Enhancing Effect of Emotion
Published on: May 4, 2011
Neural bases of memory development: Insights from magnetic resonance imaging.
Tracy Riggins1, Jade Dunstan1, Zehua Cui1
1Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA.
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews
|July 2, 2026
Summary
Brain development significantly impacts memory in children and adolescents. Microstructure and functional connectivity offer deeper insights into these memory changes than macrostructure alone.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Memory performance in adults relies on a widespread brain network.
- The development of these brain regions and their connections is linked to age-related memory improvements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review empirical research on the relationship between brain development (macrostructure, microstructure, function) and memory in children and adolescents.
- To synthesize findings on the nature of developmental changes in memory and brain structure/function.
- To identify future research directions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of empirical studies.
- Synthesis of research examining brain macrostructure, microstructure, and function.
- Analysis of functional connectivity data.
Main Results:
- Measures of brain microstructure and function, including functional connectivity, offer more insight into developmental memory changes than macrostructure.
- Developmental changes in memory are both qualitative and quantitative.
- Individual differences play a crucial role in memory development.
Conclusions:
- Brain microstructure and function are key indicators of memory development in youth.
- Understanding individual differences is vital for future research.
- Further studies are needed to fully elucidate the complex relationship between brain development and memory.
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