Normal Memory versus Traumatic Memory Formation

ABSTRACT

The main purpose of this paper is to explore the differences between ordinary (narrative) and traumatic memory. Given that memory is embedded in the context of emotions and motivation, with regions involved in processing memory also involved in processing affective information, researchers have posited that memory is disrupted for traumatic events that cause undue stress to certain regions of the brain. Researchers have posited that traumatic memories are orchestrated by special mechanisms that are not involved in the processing of non-traumatic information (Edelstein, Alexander, Goodman, & Newton, 2004; Kraft, 2004). This paper explores the research findings on traumatic memory, offer suggestions for future exploration of this topic, and attempt to determine if traumatic memories really are special in nature.

Key Words:

• Memory
• traumatic memory
• brain damage
• narrative memory
• stress