Reminiscence and the second half of life

Abstract

The theoretical and empirical literature on reminiscence during the second half of life is reviewed. In general, the theoretical accounts suggest reminiscence to be an evaluative, private phenomenon involving large segments of one's past and serving an adaptive function. The unique set of problems and concerns of late life activates the process which involves the assessment of both positive and negative events and generally produces some adjustment-relevant insight in one's life or self. As a group, the empirical research has lagged behind theory and is in its earliest stage; procedural differences and methodological flaws render the findings unclear. However, it was tentatively concluded that reminiscence is a complex phenomenon varying along many dimensions --content, frequency, form, function, affect, outcome and eliciting stimuli. Suggestions for future investigations call for focused, rigorous examination of the dimensions of reminiscence, careful definition and measurement of key constructs and the examination of specific theoretical hypotheses. Also recommended for study was the relationship of critical life events to reminiscence and adaptation, and the likelihood of reminiscence being a life-long activity.