Relations between the functions of autobiographical memory and psychological wellbeing

Abstract

Researchers have proposed that autobiographical memory serves three basic functions in everyday life: self-definition, social connection, and directing behaviour (e.g., Bluck, Alea, Habermas, & Rubin, 2005). However, no research has examined relations between the functions of autobiographical memory and healthy functioning (i.e., psychological wellbeing). The present research examined the relations between the self, social, and directive functions of autobiographical memory and three factors of psychological wellbeing in single and recurring autobiographical memories. A total of 103 undergraduate students were recruited and provided ratings of each function for four autobiographical memories (two single, two recurring events). Results found that individuals who use their autobiographical memories to serve self, social, and directive functions reported higher levels of Purpose and Communion and Positive Relationships, and that these relations differ slightly by event type.

Keywords:

• Autobiographical memory
• Function
• Self
• Social
• Directive
• Wellbeing

The author would like to thank Lawrence Barsalou, Patricia Bauer, Robyn Fivush, Scott Lilienfeld, Joseph Manns, and Corey Keyes for their thoughtful comments during the conceptualisation of this project, and John Shallcross, Chanie Howard, Yaa Cheremateng, Lauren Albers, Sumarga Suanda, Jennifer McGee, and Widaad Zaman for their assistance with data collection, transcription, and coding.

The author would like to thank Lawrence Barsalou, Patricia Bauer, Robyn Fivush, Scott Lilienfeld, Joseph Manns, and Corey Keyes for their thoughtful comments during the conceptualisation of this project, and John Shallcross, Chanie Howard, Yaa Cheremateng, Lauren Albers, Sumarga Suanda, Jennifer McGee, and Widaad Zaman for their assistance with data collection, transcription, and coding.